Games and Sports

Let's Act Fast to End Poll Violence

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The unbecoming incidents witnessed in Kisii yesterday remind us that we could be headed for turbulent times. The authorities must be on the alert to prevent any incidents which could lead to bloodshed. They must also move very firmly against any individuals or groups that perpetrate, plan or incite violence. The Kisii incident yesterday was one where the police should have moved in swiftly to arrest those involved in the actual attack and also those, who by their actions or utterances, showed that they had planned or instigated the shameful episode.

It would have provided the opportunity to demonstrate that those who engage in such actions - whatever their stations in life or whatever their political affiliations - will face the full force of the law. Anything less than arrests and charges on the incident will only serve to reinforce the impression that the authorities, in the face of election violence, might be selective in application of the law.

If the police do no take action, then they will have provided the opposing side with justification for revenge attacks. Such cycles in violence can easily get out of hand. This is especially so in a political culture where there is the propensity to try and demarcate some areas as exclusive zones for specific political groups.

President Kibaki has stated time and time again that politicians are free to campaign freely in any part of the country. There are no exclusive zones and neither are there no-go areas. That is not just an observation by the president, but the law of the land. It is the duty of the police, the Provincial Administration and other relevant agencies to enforce the law as it stands, without deference to any political groupings, particularly those that have a hold on the State machinery.

The police might have reacted yesterday in countering the violence witnessed at Kisii and averting serious bloodshed. That is not enough. They must now arrest and charge those who planned, financed and executed the criminal actions.

It is time leaders were made to realise that they will be held responsible and that they risk jail if they fan violence. And those who may be tempted to engage in violent actions at the behest of so-called leaders must also be aware that they, too, will be held individually responsible and could also face time in jail.