Directorate of Public Prosecution Noordin Haji has today launched a sensitisation program for prosecutors and stakeholders.
In an event held at the Kenya School of Government (KSG), Haji said the program will train specialised personnel on the prosecution of election offences and hate speech ahead of the fast-approaching August polls.
At the same time, Haji launched the Office of the Directorate of Public Prosecution (ODPP) elections toll-free lines and call centre to report on hate speech during the electioneering period.
“We have institutionalised the Election Preparedness Committee, specifically tasked with coordination, research, data collection, and analysis of all election-related matters,” Haji said.
According to Haji the toll number shall be used by Kenyans to report cases of hate speech and violence towards innocent citizens during this period, while at the same time operating on a 24-hour timeline.
“The 24-hour toll number by ODPP will operate during the electioneering period and effective communications by those affected, and we shall strive to have free and fair elections that will help Kenyans adhere to the rule of law,” Haji said.
Kenya National Commission of Human Rights (KNCHR) chairperson Roseline Odede said her commission has trained citizens to claim and understand their rights while at the same time respecting other people’s views and decisions.
“We have trained people to claim and understand their rights while at the same time, respecting other people’s decisions. Let Kenyans respect the right to support different political affiliations during this electioneering period,” Odede said.
Odede further said the office of the ODPP should always intervene where rights are not respected.
“Where rights are not respected there must be consequences and that’s where the office of the ODPP comes in,” Odede said.