Candidates aspiring for different political positions during August 9 General Elections in Lugari Constituency have been asked to conduct peaceful campaigns while ensuring their supporters stick to law and order.
During a meeting that brought together Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission officials, Lugari Sub-County security and intelligence committee and 12 Member of Parliament candidates, 80 candidates for Members of County Assembly resolved to observe peaceful campaigns in Lugari.
The meeting led by outgoing Deputy County Commissioner William Lenaremo dwelled mainly on how aspirants cleared by the IEBC can refrain from hate speech and incitement to violence.
Lenaremo said the government security machinery together with IEBC are on high alert to deal with any candidate that violates campaigns electoral laws that may result in suspension of the candidate.
The DCC said the candidates should sell their agenda and ideas to electorates without causing havoc, harm, or tension in areas they will be campaigning.
“Using hired goons to cause chaos against your opponent will not work this time because you can be disqualified,” Lenaremo said.
He insisted that candidates should stick to their campaign schedules to avoid situations where candidates meet at one point which may result in tension or chaos.
Lenaremo said Lugari Constituency is cosmopolitan with almost all Kenyan sub-tribes represented which calls for a well packaged campaign messaging that does not discriminate against the marginalized or minorities.
The Sub-County Security Chair warned the candidates against alcohol consumption during the campaign that it may cause havoc and disorder to the public.
Jeremiah Kerich Lugari constituency returning officer said candidates should always reign over their supporters not to engage in chaos and spoiling opponents’ posters.
Kerich said IEBC rules and regulations will apply the moment a candidate engages in chaotic campaigns that threatens peace enjoyed by the public.
Lugari Sub-County Police Commander Bernard Ngungu promised that police and the entire security team will work with all candidates without favor.
Ngungu however, asked the aspirants to inform the police in advance of their campaign schedule so that they can be given protection and always report any security threat to their team for immediate action.
The IEBC used the occasion to unveil 12 successful MP candidates and 80 MCAs together with ballot symbols. Candidates submitted their signatures to the election body after confirmation of names order and their symbols.
The meeting was also attended by the incoming Lugari Sub-County DCC Moses Gicharu and welcomed by outgoing counterpart Mr. Lenaremo, who has been moved to the headquarters.
