EU Election Observation Mission Warn That Kenya Could Be Hit By Post-Election Violence

The EU election observation mission which met with President Uhuru Kenyatta on Sunday, July 2, has warned that there could be post-election violence in Kenya.

The mission’s chief observer Marietje Schaake told the press that there were concerns of a possible violence outbreak.

“It is no secret there are concerns about the possible outbreak of violence. This is not inevitable and it is clear that this would create a situation where everyone loses,” said Schaake.

“The security and safety of elections depends on respective bodies. There is a responsibility for everyone to grant each other the right and safety to vote according to his or her conscience.”

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Schaake went on to reveal that the EU election observation mission has been meeting with key players from the Government and Opposition in line with set standards and procedures of observation.

“They have said they are ready but we are still in the process of looking at the procedures they have followed and what they have done as they prepare for elections,” she said.

During Schaake and her team’s courtesy visit to State House on Sunday, President Kenyatta assured them of Kenya’s readiness and commitment to peace. He said all the institutions involved in ensuring that the elections were conducted smoothly have done their part in readiness for the exercise.

“The elections will be held on August 8 as required by the Constitution and the Government has taken steps to ensure Kenyans exercise their democratic right and choose their leaders without interference.”

“We have also taken measures to ensure that the polls are credible, free and fair as well as ensuring that the country will be safe during and after the polls.”

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Chief observer Marietje Schaake said the EU Election Observation Mission has deployed a team of 30 long-term observers since April and was keen on the primaries. She said another 32 short-term observers are also in the country in the company of diplomatic troops who will witness the polls.

The team will make public all its observations and recommendations after the elections.