Religious leaders have urged the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission to ensure transparency, accountability, and accuracy in the counting and tallying votes process.
Bishop John Oballa Owaa, Ngong Diocese, stated that it will be disconcerting for Kenyans if ballots are not counted correctly. However, IEBC is constitutionally mandated by law to declare truthful results.
Rt. Rt.
“We call upon candidates, supporters and commentators to carefully consider their words and actions in response to the results that are announced,” said the prelate.
He said that the religious leaders called on Kenyans as well to maintain peace and national cohesion. Noting that the peaceful transition of the country’s elections was a positive sign for all Kenyans, he said that it was also a positive sign.
“We encourage all actors and stakeholders to act responsibly and at all times endeavor to preserve peace and national cohesion,” said Bishop Owaa, adding that individual aspiration for any person should not put the lives of Kenyans at risk.
The Bishop stated that every Kenyan has a part to play in improving society. Therefore, the church encourages both winners and losers, as well as candidates and individuals, to accept the will to the people as set forth in law.
He said that all the candidates and their supporters would be able to receive pastoral care, support, counseling, and other services from religious leaders and institutions.
Bishop Owaa noted that the church commends millions Kenyans for exercising their constitutional right to vote and civil duty to vote. He encouraged them to maintain peace and responsible character according to the national anthem.
The clergy also urged voters and candidates in affected areas where elections were temporarily suspended by the electoral body, to remain calm and patient while they wait for the chance to vote for their leaders.
Bernadette Khaduli
Source: kenyanews
