Chebukati stresses on IEBC readiness for August poll as he meets clerics.

The independent electoral and boundaries commission has assured clerics of its preparedness for the August poll saying it is important for the religious leaders to preach peace to all Kenyans. 

Speaking in Limuru in a meeting with the National Churches Council of Kenya, IEBC chairman Wafula Chebukati said the commission is prepared for the elections. 

Chebukati said the large number of aspirants emerging and insecurity in various parts of the country remain a potential challenge which they are confident they will handle. 

He said the previous general elections had attracted about 14,000 aspirants and the number is likely to rise to above 40,000 as a result of many seeking county assembly seats.

He told the clerics that there is a high likelihood of disputes expected from party nominations saying the political party disputes tribunal is well prepared for such outcomes. 

"With a large number of aspirants for various seats, disputes will arise after party nominations and the disputes tribunal is ready to take up petitions and resolve them," said Chebukati.

He hinted on the intended transfer of IEBC staff involved in registration to various regions to ensure integrity and will publish names of presiding clerks and returning officers as required, asking members of the public to speak out on those they felt uncomfortable with.

He warned that personnel that will be found violating the election offences Act will be prosecuted and added that political parties had to sign a code of conduct to which they are expected to abide by as they get into primaries. 

Chebukati in his address asked politicians to desist from making inflammatory remarks in rallies as many were destroying public trust in the commission as they question it's ability to run the elections without having engaged theit office.