The United Nations has urged politicians vying for seats in the General Election to play by the rules and preach peace during their campaigns.
Speaking when he met the chairman of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) Isaack Hassan, United Nations Under Secretary-General for Political Affairs Jeffrey Feltman cautioned politicians that they have an obligation to abide by the law and prevail upon their supporters to shun election-related violence.
“Let me take this opportunity to appeal to all Kenyans to exercise their democratic right and participate actively – but peacefully - in the elections," said Mr Feltman, noting that the world will closely watch the March 4 elections.
"Let me also underscore the responsibility shared by leaders at all levels to abide by legal mechanisms and to send a clear message to supporters that violence of any kind would be unacceptable."
He congratulated the commission for conducting the voter registration exercise in just one month, which he described as “record time".
“He also reiterated the readiness of the United Nations for continuous financial and technical support for the remaining critical phases of the electoral process,” a statement from the Department of Political Affairs at the UN stated.
Mr Feltman commended efforts being made to avoid any repeat of the violence that rocked the country following the disputed 2007 presidential election.
The UN boss also held meetings with Chief Justice Willy Mutunga and Attorney General Githu Muigai, stressing the need for institutions like the IEBC, the Judiciary and the State Law Office to ensure the elections are credible, transparent and peaceful.
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