Ensure electoral integrity to help stem malpractices

In liberal democracies, elections are a fundamental part of the legitimisation of governments and the establishment of a social contract between elected officials and the people. Democracy in this school of thought isn’t just about engaging people in governance but it is also a show of the nation’s strong belief in values of freedom.

Kenya’s democracy has evolved over time, from the days of single party State to multiparty democracy. Kenyans have also evolved in their belief in democratic ideals. We must not take it for granted that in Kenya two people from different political alignment can queue one in front of the other and vote peacefully then go home. The questions that arise are what is it that make our elections messy, is it the people? Is it the number of positions being contested? Is it the election schedule? Is it the electoral institutions? Or is it the politicians?