Kenyans retreated to churches on Sunday for prayers ahead of the hotly contested presidential elections on Tuesday. The electoral commission held separate prayers inside the national tallying centre in Nairobi, where they once again pledged to give the country a free and fair process.
The nation is seeking divine intervention, 48 hours to the polls. The IEBC on whom the duty of refereeing for the electoral race lies, stands ready. “We have done everything humanly possible; we now leave the rest to God,” says IEBC Deputy Chairperson Connie Maina.
In 2013, the electronic tallying system partially failed leading to claims that the elections were fraudulent. This time, the commission is leaving no chances.
“We will deliver a free, fair and credible elections and I can say that without fear of contradiction,” says IEBC Chairperson Wafula Chebukati.
While opposition presidential candidate former Prime Minister Raila Odinga opted to have a quiet day at his Nairobi home. President Uhuru Kenyatta and his deputy attended two church services. Kenyatta steered off politics instead choosing to urge for peace.
At the National Tally Centre, where the electoral commission will relay the final results of the race, the commission started off with prayers. The team then committed to deliver free, fair and credible elections.
On Monday, the commission will begin distributing voter materials. The African Union’s Elections Observer Mission led by former South African President Thabo Mbeki is expected to address the media and make another call for peace.
– By Sarah Kimani
