Ambassador Godec: US has no preferred presidential candidate

US Ambassador to Kenya Robert Godec photo:courtesy

The United States government has insisted that it has no preference among the eight presidential candidates set to battle it out in the August 8 election.

US Ambassador to Kenya Robert Godec said though they are providing all the necessary support to Kenya to ensure a peaceful election, the super power does not support any candidate but democracy.

"Kenyans want peace, rule of law and prosperity just like America. And while our support is important, only Kenyans, and them alone can ensure a peaceful election," said Godec.

Godec clarified that their support in the August polls is solely to ensure Kenyans make informed decisions in choosing their next leaders.
"I have said this again and again, no Kenyan should die over election," said Godec during the celebrations of US 241 years of independence.

While the US is pushing for a peaceful elections in the country, two months ago during the onset of party primaties, the country had released a circular cautioning the over 20,000 Americans living in the country-and the 100,000 visiting every year-of possible chaos.

But National Assembly Speaker Justin Muturi assured the international community that Kenya is not just ready for the polls but it will uphold peace before, during and after the elections.

Speaking at the US Independence Day, Muturi said all plans have been meticulously put in place to ensure the election are peaceful, free, fair and transparent.

"Unlike 2013, this time the Independent Electoral and Boundary Commission (IEBC) as well as other institution like the Judiciary are ready for the polls and its aftermath," said Muturi.

The NA speaker added that security agencies have also in place an elaborate plan for the exercise.

He however noted the huge number of international observers streaming in the country to provide oversight in the election saying it has been orchestrated by the similar big number of candidates (14,472) lined up to fight for 1,882 positions.

"All we are asking however is that they (international observers) should exercise impartiality during their reporting," Muturi said.