2002 Elections
Violence Must Not Mar By-Elections
- Details
- Published on Monday, 23 July 2007 00:14
It is unacceptable that some enemies of peace have turned the area into a battle zone, pitting supporters of the Kanu candidate against those of the Opposition.
And it would seem that a pattern has been developed - namely, to intensify campaign violence as the election day nears. Lives have been lost, scores of party supporters injured, and property destroyed in skirmishes that do not make sense.
It is intriguing that the police seem to have been either overwhelmed or are indulging in a game of secrecy. That is why we should listen to ECK chairman Samuel Kivuitu when he complains that the law enforcers are not arresting perpetrators of campaign violence, although they were well-known. This must be frowned on by those who cherish sobriety.
It does not also help matters when Police Commissioner Philemon Abong'o keeps mum over Mr. Kivuitu's claims. Maintaining order and protecting lives and public property are top on the detail of the police. Any lapse in doing this cannot be tolerated.
An altercation of sorts has since obtained in South Mugirango over plans by the state to use the dreaded General Service Unit should violence run amok. This "wisdom" cannot wash since Vigilance House has not told all and sundry that regular and administration police have failed to tame the violence.
Some Opposition MPs from the Gucha and Kisii districts have pointed accusing fingers at a Kanu legislator for allegedly hiring goons to disrupt rallies called by their candidates. On the other hand, Kanu MPs and leaders in the area have put the Opposition in the dock for allegedly making life difficult for their candidate and his supporters.
The sad thing is that as this theatre of cross-party tirades continues, violence is taking a toll on democracy.
Elections can only be free and fair if the voters make their decision at the ballot box without undue interference. That way, they make the sacred decision of electing candidates of their choice. And the only force that must guarantee them this is the police. Those sponsoring the heinous disruptions must be arrested, taken to court and charged now. That is the only way to ensure that South Mugirango electors go to the ballot box on Friday without grouch.
