Interior Cabinet Secretary Joseph Nkaissery today pre-empted possibility of electoral related chaos amid ongoing party primaries but warned decisive action against perpetrators of anarchy.
In a bold move, Nkaissery further cautioned police officers against being partisan in enforcement of their duties while polling clerks were warned against denying access of aspirants’ agents inside the
polling stations.
“It has been reported that there were clear plans to rig some aspirants by compromising returning officers and police officers providing security in polling stations,”Nkaissery said.
After holding two hours meeting with Inspector General of Police Joseph Boinnet and Interior Principal Secretary Karanja Kibicho at Harambee House, Nkaissery said the government will consult with the
electoral body to have candidates found culpable of such malpractice disqualified.
“Taking cognisance of the principle of separation of powers, the national government has steered clear of party primaries. However, going by the number of incidents of chaos and violence recently
experienced during the party primaries, the government has decided to step in and take decisive action to maintain peace and stability,”Nkaissery said.
Nkaissery’s statement came as Jubilee Party primaries kicked off yesterday following last week’s abortive process.
Opposition’s Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party nominations have also been marred by violent scenes majorly in Migori and Nairobi.
Homa Bay, Kisii, Migori, Kisumu, Busia, Bungoma, Kiambu, Murang’a, Nakuru, Kajiado, Embu and Mombasa were profiled as potential hot spots previously marred by politically instigated violence.
Seventeen suspects believed to have taken part in Migori’s violence pitting rival camps were yesterday arraigned in court.
Also, a parliamentary aspirant from Nakuru County and three supporters will be charged in court after they were arrested being in possession of crude weapons.
Bodyguards were also warned against misusing firearms.
“The Government will deal decisively with anybody who threatens the security of our citizens. Make no mistake about our resolve on this! I want to caution Kenyans that any person found taking the law into their own hands will be dealt with in accordance with the law,” he added.
Police officers and polling clerks have been accused of favoring some candidates by denying agents of other candidates’ access to polling
stations.
In Nyandarua County, a police officer was found acting as a presiding officer at Nyakiambi Polling station.
Already, investigations against the officer have commenced with a view to taking appropriate disciplinary action in accordance with the Service Standing Orders.
Nkaissery said the government shall take firm disciplinary action including dismissal of such officers who interfere with the parties’ nomination process.
