Written By John Mutiso 📝
The Inspector General of the National Police Service, Hillary Mutyambai, issued election security management manual for police commanders ahead of the August general elections.
Election security is a primary function of the Police to ensure the protection of citizens, communities, vulnerable and marginalized groups, organizations, and institutions against threats.
Therefore, the manual highlighted the necessary measures for the maintenance of law and order and stability required for the conduct of an election and to protect and uphold the rights of all persons under any written law relating to elections.
“As we gear towards general elections, security challenges are dynamic and factors change from one county to the other depending on tribal composition during elections,” part of the statement read.
The Inspector through the manual stated some of the functions of the police during the election period which include; maintaining law and order, providing security during the election process and detecting election offences and then bringing the offenders to justice.
Mutyambai said that the manual is intended to be a reference handbook for Police Commanders and ensure that the Police roles and responsibilities during elections are carried out in a professional and consistent manner.
“It is envisaged that the Manual will be applied by all Police Commanders including Police Stations across the country during elections. Adherence to the guidelines provided by this manual will enhance police preparedness and response mechanisms to election security in a collaborative and coordinated manner,”he added.
He also advised politicians to avoid hate speeches or inciting words that can lead to violence. They were also advised to be informing the police when they have a political meeting so that they may provide security.
“Political Parties and/or Candidates shall be expected to inform the respective Police Commanders of the venue and time of any proposed public meeting well in time so as to enable Police to make necessary arrangements for maintaining peace and order.”
He also said that Police Commanders who are responsible for enforcing border security including assisting immigration officers in enforcement of lawful duties along the borders must undertake all necessary measures to enhance border security services during elections.
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