The August 9 elections, which are just over two weeks away, will be observed by African Union representatives who are already in Kenya.
The delegation’s leader, Ellen Dingani, stated that they have been stationed in various areas of the nation.
“We have brought these stakeholders to understand the steps [Kenyan agencies] are taking to mitigate special risks ahead of the General Election,” Ms Dingani said.
She said this year’s elections are “highly contested” and involving diplomatic missions will help maintain peace during and after the polls.
“We have diplomatic missions in Kenya who will be watching over this election. This is a hotly contested election [and] we will work with all parties involved to ensure that there is a peaceful election,” she added.
She spoke during a panel discussion with representatives of state agencies involved in the electoral process.
One of them was the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties (ORPP), which urged Parliament to enact laws regulating nominations.
Registrar of Political Parties Ann Nderitu cited cases of violence during primaries.
“From the recently concluded party nominations, we noted with concern cases of violence … We understand that party nominations play a critical role in the election process and it is for this reason that we request that proper laws and regulations be put in place to guide the process from now on,” Ms Nderitu said.
