Government to shut down media houses that announce poll results before IEBC
Government has threatened to shut down media houses that will announce election results before the electoral agency.
ICT Cabinet Secretary Joe Mucheru said responsibility of announcing results is solely for the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC).
“Hata nyinyi media you are not IEBC. The constitution gives IEBC the responsibility to announce results. Nobody else. If the media tries to announce results hata hiyo tutafunga,” said Mr Mucheru.
Speaking at Endarasha Boys Secondary school in Kieni Nyeri County, the CS said the government will not block tallying of votes.
“The election will be free, fair and credible. We have allowed tallying wherever they are but announcing and publishing is for IEBC. The Media is not the IEBC,” said Mr Mucheru.
SECURITY AGENCIES
He emphasized that the electoral agency is a constitutional independent body.
The CS further told off politicians for dragging security agencies including the military into politics.
“The security agencies have responsibility to fullfil,” he said while accompanied by Kieni MP Kanini Kega.
Mr Mucheru also highlighted government’s achievements to the residents while drumming up support for Jubilee administration.
He mentioned the digital literacy program which involves distribution of laptops to schools saying it is 100 percent successful now.
He added free maternity services, free education, Inua Jamii and NHIF medical scheme.
BOYCOTT THREAT
“University graduates will be getting government paid internships to get work experiences. We must think carefully when voting,” said the CS.
Mr Mucheru told residents that the development strides made by Jubilee will be reversed if it loses in the upcoming polls.
On his part, MP Kega urged Cabinet Secretaries to campaign for President Kenyatta’s re-election by highlighting to residents government achievements.
He also downplayed threats by the National Super Alliance (Nasa) to boycott the elections on allegations that government rigged in its favour.
“They have sensed defeat early and that is why they are running for shelter and skelter. They are involving the military to taint its image but if Nasa boycotts other candidates will participate,” said Mr Kega.
He added that President Kenyatta will get more than 70 percent of votes cast due to its performance for the past four years.
