Elections could last until June, warns Igad

By FELIX OLICK

Nairobi, Kenya: Kenyans and Government institutions should brace themselves for a prolonged electoral process that could last until June, a regional development organisation warned.

The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (Igad) noted that the upcoming polls were not an event, but a process that might not be concluded on March 4.

The eight-country regional organisation maintained that the presidential contest could spill into a run-off or be subject to a petition, as a result Kenyans must remain calm and patient.

 “Kenyans in general and institutions of Government should brace themselves for prolonged electoral process that does not end on March 5. This preparedness is important for sustainable peace after the March 4 polling,” noted Igad Director of Conflict, Early Warning and Response Mechanism Martin Kimani.

Igad officials maintained that the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) and the Judiciary were key to the success of the vote. The authority  said it expected the same efficiency the IEBC used during voter registration.