Thursday, the 28th of February 2013 -With just three days left before the country goes to the polls, the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) today received a welcome shot in the arm after Commonwealth Observer Group expressed confidence that it has the competence to deliver a free and fair election.
The sentiments from the Commonwealth observers were expressed by former Botswana President Festus Mogae who is heading the team. Mogae said that he had had a meeting with IEBC Chairman Issack Hassan and was left with no doubts that the electoral body would come through;
“We have met with IEBC Chairman and he assures us they are ready for the tasks that lie ahead and will closely follow all aspects of the process,” he said.
Mogae at the same time urged the IEBC to ensure that polls open on time on Monday and that voting and counting all happen at a brisk pace;
“Of particular note is the need for the IEBC to ensure the timely opening of the polls, the effective management of the more complex voting process and the efficient and transparent management of the results process,” he advised.
The statesman also lauded the Presidential candidates for taking steps to reconcile with each and with the people since it serves to cool down political temperatures. He further urged the politicians to obey the election code so as to set an example for their followers.
Mogae added that the elections are an important test of whether Kenya’s recent reforms have been effective;
“It is to Kenya’s credit that in subsequent years some of this confidence has been re-gained, notably with regard to the judiciary and management of the electoral process. These elections are the next step and it is imperative that first and foremost political contestants engage in all phases of the process in a responsible manner,” he said.
The Kenyan DAILY POST
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