In 2007, we saw the economic cost that widespread poll-violence, looting and stealing had on our economy and the economy of the entire region.
This hurt our nation, which lost over Sh100 billion ($1.2b) in revenue as a result of an undermined tourism and agriculture. While we may have regained the ground we lost, we cannot afford to go back to that period.
Our friends in the wider international community can also promote peace by promoting impartiality in the elections; go out of their way to ensure that whatever the result next year, no one feels as if Kenyans have been obstructed from choosing their own leaders without pressure or interference. And they must be willing to partner with Kenya, whoever wins those to build institutions that will secure a lasting and peaceful future.
For my part I pledge that I will.
-Writer is Deputy Prime Minister.
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