The European Union Election Observation Mission (EOM) has issued a fresh statement ahead of the October 26 election and bashed the Jubilee Party and the National Super Alliance (NASA) for their recent actions.
EOM on Monday noted that the electoral amendment Bill passed by Jubilee legislators was 'highly controversial' and would further create divisions in the country.
"The amendments are not required under the Supreme Court's 1 September ruling and their timing is not consistent with good practice for electoral law reform," read the statement in part.
[caption caption="EU EOM Officials With Majority Leader Aden Duale"]
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The Mission also slammed NASA for declaring that there would be no election as this would incite its supporters to obstruct polling and tallying.
"Such actions from both sides of the political divide are seriously damaging democratic functioning.
"Dialogue and cooperation are urgently needed for compromises so there can be a peaceful electoral process with integrity and transparency and Kenyans can choose their President," read the statement.
On the 18 recommendations that the Union had suggested ahead of the fresh poll, it noted that the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) had made significant progress towards ensuring a credible election.
"The EU EOM has observed the IEBC is undertaking positive measures at this stage in regards to nearly all of the nine recommendations that relate to the election administration.
"If implemented as planned, these provide a foundation for an improved technical process, with stronger transparency and integrity measures.
"Plans for much stronger coverage by the media of tabulation in tallying centres should enable the public to see the results tabulation process and totals," stated EOM.
[caption caption="IEBC Chairman Wafula Chebukati"]
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