As the campaigns for the August General Elections enter the homestretch, residents of Trans Nzoia County have been urged to maintain the prevailing peace.
Trans Nzoia West Deputy County Commissioner ((DCC) Charles Ocharo made the appeal at the County Commissioner’s building in Kitale town during the Amani Torch Run flag off for the county on Tuesday.
Ocharo represented area County Commissioner Samson Ojwang who was away on family issues following the death of his wife.
The event which was marked across the country brought together several stakeholders in security issues including uniformed officers, local administrators, candidates vying for various elective seats, boda boda operators and the county peace committee members.
Addressing the participants, Ocharo emphasised the need for the local politicians and their supporters to continue upholding the prevailing peace until August 9 when Kenyan voters will head to the ballot to elect their preferred leaders.
“So far we the county has generally witnessed peaceful campaigns devoid of acts of violence,” observed Ocharo, urging candidates for elective seats to maintain the same.
He at the same time urged members of the public to allow the candidates to market individual as well as affiliate political parties’ blueprints, which he noted were significant in assisting the electorate to make informed decisions and thereby elect the right leaders.
Assuring the locals of maximum security until after the polls, the DCC issued a stern warning to politicians and supporters out to commit any of the election offences. “We have deployed adequate security personnel across the County,” Ocharo assured the public.
County Police Commander Mrs. Jacinta Wesonga echoed the DCC’s sentiments and reassured the business community of a conducive working environment. The CPC asked the locals to remain vigilant throughout the remaining electioneering period.
Speaking at the event, County Peace Committee Chairperson Mr. Robert Butaki explained the main objective of the Amani Torch Peace Run was to enable Kenyans embrace peaceful coexistence amidst the heightened General Elections campaign fever.
“Election related tensions and violence disrupt social security and economic growth and development. Thus, the aim is to engage with concerned stakeholders on how to boost security for peaceful elections that in the end enhance peaceful co-existence among Kenyans,” remarked Butaki.
The participants later took part in a five kilometre run within Kitale town. The Peace Run initiative will be conducted in all the five sub counties.
By Ngeywa Mosobin and Maurice Aluda
