Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has assured Kenyans that security agencies are fully prepared to guarantee peace during tomorrow’s by-elections across the country.
Speaking in Kasipul, CS Murkomen, who toured Kasipul alongside the Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of the Administration Police Service (APS) and regional security teams, said the government will protect voters and polling stations to uphold democratic rights.
“We want to restore the confidence of the people of Kenya in the electoral process by ensuring that these by-elections are peaceful and are being managed by the National Police Service, and not by goons.”
Murkomen has cautioned all political parties and candidates who plan to provide their own security, stating that the Kenyan constitution does not assign any responsibility to any Kenyan to protect their vote.
Murkomen’s Message to Kenyans
The CS condemned the growing trend of aspirants recruiting goons to disrupt elections, warning that anyone planning to ferry gangs to polling stations or tallying centres will face the full force of the law.
All vehicle owners and transporters aiding in such activities will also be arrested.
“In the last maandamano (protests), we had people who ferried goons to burn police stations and people’s houses, and we arrested them and charged with terror. You need to consult them to see the consequences they faced.”
Murkomen has also assured all women, persons with disabilities, and the elderly that they should not fear going to vote and should not loiter around the polling or tallying stations after casting their vote, as this will lead to their arrest.
“I urge all members of the respective wards that will take part in the by-elections to preserve the peace we have and respect the outcome of the votes. With the current technology being used in Kenyan elections, the results are secure.”
No Alleged Foul Play by the Government
When asked about the various claims of government interference in some of the upcoming by-elections, CS Murkomen brushed off the allegations, stating that they are baseless and mischievous claims.
“The government only takes preventive measures. People were mobilising young Kenyans to cause violence in previous polls, and we are happy that someone is blaming the government from the comfort of their seat while safe, and no deaths or injuries have been recorded.”
Also Read: New Twist as Gachagua Calls for Resignation of IEBC Vice Chair
He further added that every piece of information the National Police Service receives will be acted upon immediately to curb any violence.
Murkomen stated that the people criticizing the government do not appreciate the peace in the country and are quick to blame the government when a crisis happens.
“Our role is to maintain law and order, not to engage in electoral malpractice. When criminals complain that the government is intimidating them, that is our success.”
Murkomen has also urged Kenyans to respect any orders issued by the police to ease operations and prevent injuries or deaths.
Through the public address, Murkomen clarified that the heavy police presence is for the betterment of the citizens and that there are no targeted individuals.
“In areas where the government fears there is planned violence, we will deploy as many officers as possible. Those police will not be there to intimidate any voter, but rather to ensure that every voter can enjoy their right to vote.”
Also Read: IEBC Chair Responds to Video of ODM Politician Bribing Voters with Mattresses Hours to Elections
Murkomen called on Kenyans to report any officer interfering with voting.
The CS concluded by wishing success to all candidates and the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), which is managing the polls under a new team.
Follow our WhatsApp Channel and X Account for real-time news updates.
