EU poll observers call for reforms at IEBC

European Union election observers have recommended urgent electoral commission reforms chief among them investigation and prosecution of staff responsible for bungled presidential poll.

The observers made 18 recommendations to be effected before the October 17 presidential rerun.

Suggested reforms include the IEBC developing and communicating more detailed procedures for the counting, tallying, transmission and transparency of results.

Additionally, tests of procedures and technology as well as improvements to the results transmission software and network coverage are called for so that party agents and the media can comprehensively scrutinize constituency tallying centres.

“The re-run offers a key opportunity for Kenya to create a more robust democracy and rule of law. But this process is not automatic, requires hard work, and the rebuilding of trust. The recommended reforms should help the IEBC and others to rebuild the confidence of Kenyans in their elections. It is essential that people come together and work together to serve all Kenyans, and the Constitution. Our EU election observation mission continues its impartial and independent observation work, also during the re-run,” said Marietje Schaake Chief Observer, EU Election Observer Mission.

“We also believe that investigative bodies should be thorough and prompt in investigating electoral offences so people at all levels are held to account.” She added.