NCIC to deploy election monitors to counties

The National Cohesion and Integration Commission has began recruiting monitors who will be deployed to the counties ahead of the elections.  NCIC Chairman Mzalendo Kibunjia says they will initially deploy two monitors to each of the 47 counties. The number will be increased ahead of the polls. They will be given equipment to monitor political campaigns and other activities.

Kibunjia said the commission had also formed a unit of five officers who will be in charge of monitoring social media sites. "We hope Kenyans and leaders will conduct themselves in a mature manner that will keep our country united, peaceful and cohesive during after the election period," he said. The elections, he said, provided an opportunity for the country to open a new chapter that will attract international respect and better development prospects.

Kibunjia said the officers in charge of monitoring social media will, on a daily basis, asses the on goings on the internet sites. The NCIC is also teaming up with other stakeholders including the police and civil society groups in in order to ensure that the law is fully implemented. Through the networks NCIC will step up training activities aimed at sensitizing the public on the existing legislation and on the need for cohesion and integration among Kenyan communities.