The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) is on the spot from different political quarters after it announced that it had printed 1.2 million extra ballot papers for the forthcoming election, more than the required extra 1% of the total registered voters.
Thirdway Alliance presidential contender Ekuru Aukot has raised concerns over the 1.2 million extra presidential ballot papers printed by Dubai-based firm Al Ghurair Printing and Publishing LLC.
Although the electoral agency has defended the one per cent more ballot papers than the registered voters, Aukot said that the high number of extra ballots raises serious vote rigging fears, sentiments that have been backed by National Super Alliance (NASA).
IEBC commissioner Paul Kurgat said that the extra ballots were in line with election regulations, which allow a voter the chance to request for another ballot paper if the previous one is spoilt before casting.
Aukot says that IEBC must ensure the extra ballot papers do not mixed with others for the purpose of accountability.
“IEBC must ensure that this particular batch of ballot papers does not mix with any other suspected fake ballot papers that can possibly be introduced, especially during transportation to the polling stations,” Aukot said in a statement.
“Used, unused and spoilt ballot papers must be reconciled properly and results tallied transparently and transmitted without any hitches,” he added.
Aukot warned that any partisan engagement with state or non-state actors by IEBC is likely to bring elections into disrepute.
“Early signs of this partisan engagement have been reported in the print media recently.
“We hope to see a commission that will remain constantly in dialogue with the players but jealously protect its independence,” he said.
