Kenyan athletes to miss general elections

Middle distance running coach Bernard Ouma at Moi International Sport Centre, Kasarani on July 25, 2017 ahead of IAAF London World Championships. [Dennis Okeyo, Standard]

Kenyan athletes to miss next week's elections

Kenyan track and field stars are often regarded as great ambassadors as they continue to chalk up victories in major championships across the globe.

But these world-famous men and women will miss the General Election scheduled for next Tuesday.

The more than 100 athletes and officials, both from Athletics Kenya and the Ministry of Sports, will play no part in the elections as they are in London for this year's World Championships that begin tomorrow.

Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) Commissioner Roselyne Akombe said there are no provisions in the Election Law and Regulations or early or absentee voting as happens in others countries.

"Unfortunately, this means that the athletes and other critical staff  may not be able to vote on August 8," said Akombe.

"We have no choice. We only pray for Kenyans to maintain peace during the elections," said Elijah Manangoi, who will represent the country in the men's 1,500m race.

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