EU to keep eye on new law vote

By ABIUD OCHIENG’
Posted Tuesday, July 27 2010 at 13:25

The European Union will closely monitor the Kenya referendum to check if the process is objective.

Head of the European Union delegation to Kenya Eric Van Der Linden said Tuesday that the International Community and the EU will visit a number of polling stations during the referendum to assess the process.

“We will be talking to the non-governmental organisations, police and local people at selected polling stations to ensure the process moves as planned,” said Mr Linden in Kisumu, western Kenya when he visited with Kisumu Mayor Sam Okello.

The referendum on the proposed constitution will be held on August 4 where Kenyans will either approve or reject the document.

Mr Linden said that the EU supports the ongoing reforms in the country and would like to see Agenda 4 reforms implemented.

He said that the EU wants the process to be peaceful and leave the country united no matter the outcome of the vote.

“We urge the provincial administration and the security forces to ensure that the process does not have violence especially on the hotspot areas,” said Mr Linden.

“Even if the Yes or No wins, it is important that people remain united to continue building their country.”

He was accompanied by Head of Social and Environment Section Mr Daniel Plas.

The EU partners Kenya on development and growth and has funded various projects in the country.