Interior Cabinet Secretary (CS) Fred Matiang'i on Monday, November 1, defended himself and ICT CS Joe Mucheru over their involvement with the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC).
In a statement released to the media, Matiang'i dismissed claims that he and his ICT counterpart were interfering with the mandate of IEBC.
The CS explained that the partnership between the two ministries and the electoral agency was only to create the right environment for the commission to discharge its duties in line with their official dockets.
“We, in the security sector, do not conduct elections – that is the mandate of the IEBC, and our work is to support the Commission by providing security,” the CS stated.
He further termed the allegations as nothing but cheap rhetoric and that he would not be provoked into engaging his critics.
Matiang'i also responded to calls for his resignation by a section of politicians. The CS claimed that the attacks were personal, adding that he was not bothered by them.
He added that those calling for his resignation intended to distract him and security officers from executing their mandate of ensuring the protection of all stakeholders.
The Interior boss also ordered county commissioners and other grass-root administrators to prioritise the security of women aspirants in forthcoming elections.
He noted that special attention would be given to them as they were more susceptible to intimidation or election-related attacks.
“The maturity of our democracy will be tested on the level of participation of every voter and aspirant in the elections, including women and the vulnerable population,” the CS remarked.
Matiang'i instructed County Commissioners and other National Government Administration Officials (NGAOs) to create a database of all-female aspirants and to map out their security needs.
