The key to peaceful elections lies in independent institutions

Since they took the reins of power, President Uhuru Kenyatta and his deputy William Ruto have often pledged to reconcile the country. Such an assurance, by any standards, deserves praise.

However, with references drawn from experience and history, it is not in doubt that these verbal commitments are not enough.

The key to peaceful elections lies in strong and independent institutions. The President and his deputy should ensure the electoral, judicial and law enforcement agencies have the machinery to fulfill their constitutional obligations.

However, it is my concern that in the run up to the General Election, key institutions appear to be suffering from innumerable ‘injuries.’

The Judiciary and the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission are both caught up in a web of corruption allegations. The National Cohesion and Integration Commission on the other hand appears to be a toothless dog.

The Executive should move swiftly and restore public confidence in these institutions. NCIC should for instance, be given sufficient grounds to fulfill this mandate.

The Government should consider pumping more funds to give these institutions more independence and protect against manipulation and external interference.

Corruption allegations and bias at the IEBC should be investigated and legal action taken against those implicated. The appointment process of the next Chief Justice should be devoid of personal or political interests. The next CJ should be ready to consolidate the gains the Judiciary has achieved over the years.

The Judiciary should be well staffed ahead of the 2017 elections to facilitate the speedy hearing and conclusion of election petitions. Kenyans, too, should shun leaders whose utterances are inflammatory and tribal.

Quality of education is turning into a mirage. Our health care system is also wanting. It is quite unfortunate that the poor status of our road network has remained a campaign tool for any politician.

Kenyans need development-minded leaders to address these soaring social issues that ail our country and to steer the country forward.

It is only such leaders who will foster unity and peaceful co–existence among us.

When all is said and done, Kenyans must appreciate that at the moment, we only need leaders willing to help cut down government spending.