The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has appealed to political parties and aspirants for various elective positions in Trans Nzoia County to strictly adhere to rules and regulations guiding the process.
Trans Nzoia County Returning Officer (CRO) Mr. John Cox Lorionokou made the appeal during a pre-nomination meeting with aspirants for gubernatorial, senate and woman member of national assembly seats in the county on Wednesday.
The meeting, which was also attended by area County Commissioner Mr. Samson Ojwang and members of the county security team, was held at Kitale Museum.
“By now, the commission expects every political party, Independent Candidate and every person participating in this General Election under the Constitution and the Elections Act to have subscribed to the Electoral Code of Conduct as set out in the Second Schedule,” stated Lorionokou.
The CRO emphasized the electoral body would not hesitate to take necessary legal measures against candidates that would violate the elections rules as enshrined in the Elections Act.
He in particular urged the aspirants to publicly condemn violence and intimidation and avoid the use of hate speech, language or any kind of action that may lead to violence or intimidation, whether to demonstrate party strength or for gaining any kind of advantage.
“For us to realise a peaceful and credible electoral process here in Trans Nzoia, we urge politicians to refrain from any action involving violence and intimidation,” spelt out Lorionokou.
With official political campaigns scheduled to kick off next week, the RCO further urged the candidates to ensure no arms or weapons of any kind were carried or displayed at campaign meetings.
CC Ojwang echoed the RCO’s sentiments and assured the aspirants of maximum security throughout the election cycle.
He however cautioned them against engaging innocent youths into activities that border on hooliganism.
“The county security team will be on high alert and will not hesitate to take appropriate legal actions against aspirants or candidates that will be accused of flouting rules guiding this important but delicate process,” warned the county administrator.
