Multi-sectoral committee formed to spearhead peace in Kajiado ahead of August polls
Kajiado County County Commissioner Wilson Wanyanga has urged the residents to refrain from any form of violence, including provocation on social media and heckling opponents during political campaign rallies.
After launching a Multi-Sectoral Forum tasked with harmonizing coordination of peace activities ahead of the August polls, he addressed in Kajiado town highlighting that politicians should preach peace during their campaigns and to avoid divisive politics that could exacerbate tensions among residents.
The Multi-sectoral Committee is made up of key stakeholders in the electoral process, including representatives from the security sector, the county government, the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission, non-governmental organizations, religious organizations, the media fraternity, the boda boda association, and women and youth.
He advised the youth to be peacemakers and to refuse to be bought by politicians to incite mayhem during election campaigns.
“Kajiado is a cosmopolitan county and we want to ensure that the peace which has always reigned is maintained during the electioneering period. I want to urge all residents to maintain peace even as we head to the polls,” he said.
Wanyanga said the committee will collaborate with security authorities to identify hotspot locations in the county and educate communities about the value of peaceful coexistence.
The multi-sectoral forum on elections, according to Kevin Osido, Executive Director of County Governance Watch, is vital because it allows residents to participate in the electoral process.
Bishop Michael Mwasia appealed to Kenyans to vote peacefully and refrain from inciting violence against one another.
He said that as the country approaches elections, all religious leaders in the county have pledged to disseminate peace messages to the people.
“Elections will come and go but as residents we will still need one another as we live together, so we should ensure that we maintain peace and vote wisely during the polls,” said the bishop.
