Misuse of firearms led to 70 per cent of deaths in 2022 elections, KNCHR says
During the launch of the final monitoring report of 2022 Kenyan elections dubbed ‘Demystifying Our Democracy’, KNCHR chairperson Roseline Odede noted the report recorded a substantial drop in the number of lives lost compared to 2017.
“Other violations such as assaults, intimidation, harassment, voter bribery, and misuse of children in elections are still a grave concern,” she said.
Odede further noted that the report documents a total of seven (7) cases of loss of life
“This is a reduction from 2017 where ninety-nine (99) cases of death were documented by KNCHR. The seven cases captured in 2022 include three (3) deaths which occurred during the campaign period and four (4) during and after the polls. These cases were reported in six (6) counties namely, Kisii, West Pokot, Trans Nzoia, Kisumu, Bungoma and Nairobi. Out of the seven (7) cases documented, two (2) were allegedly perpetrated by civilians, three (3) were a result of road accidents during political campaigns and post polls, and two (2) by unknown assailants,” she said.
The Commission noted there was rise in cases of insecurity in various parts of the country particularly in Lamu, Garissa, Marsabit, Baringo, Elgeyo Marakwet, Mandera, Nakuru, Turkana and West Pokot Counties
“While the Government took measures to enhance security in these areas, the Commission notes that insecurity impedes citizens’ democratic rights to vote and be voted for as provided in Article 38 of the Constitution,” Odede stated.
According to the report the Commission monitored inflammatory speeches in political gatherings and the media, and documented 49 cases of threats, harassment, and intimidation
“Such utterances disenfranchise people of their constitutionally guaranteed rights by creating fear amongst voters and threatening peace and stability,” she said.
