United Democratic Alliance deputy presidential candidate, Rigathi Gachagua, has expressed confidence in the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) in the ongoing elections. 

Speaking after casting his vote at the Sagana Primary School in Nyeri on Tuesday, August 9 Gachagua stated that the systems deployed by IEBC were full-proof and could not be infiltrated. 

The voting process, he added, was seamless and he couldn’t comprehend an incident where manipulation of votes through stuffing of ballot papers would occur. “We are very happy and extremely impressed by the preparedness of IEBC. The voting process is smooth and in instances where voters cannot be identified biometrically, like the case of my 91-year-old aunt, were handled accordingly,” Gachagua stated.

“It is impossible, through what I have witnessed, to introduce dead voters or stuff ballot papers. I am certain the will of the people by this evening will prevail,” he added. 

On the other hand, Central Organisation of Trade Union (COTU) secretary general Francis Atwoli also lauded IEBC for conducting one of the most organised elections.

Speaking in Khwisero after casting his vote, Atwoli said that the entire process was smooth and progressing well.

He urged Western Kenya voters to turn out in large numbers to vote for Azimio La Umoja presidential candidate, Raila Odinga. 

“I want to thank IEBC for the stringent measures they have put in place to prevent electoral malpractices. They are very quick to act, ” he said.

Further, Atwoli thanked the IEBC personnel for assisting those who needed help, This is despite the delays witnessed during the opening of several other polling stations.

“The exercises are good, the returning officers are good, apart from a little bit of delay. Also, the clerical officers are very keen to assist to make sure the required people who need help are assisted” added Atwoli.

Interior CS Fred Matiang’i who voted in Manga Girls High School in Nyamira County concurred stating that he was impressed by the voter turnout. 

“I have not got any hitch, the process is slow because of the number of candidates, but am impressed with the turnout, I can tell that the officials are prepared to carry on the exercise,”

President Uhuru Kenyatta also made similar remarks after casting his vote at Mutomo Primary School in Kiambu County. 

“The exercise was smooth as you have seen I haven’t stayed in for long. Kenyans should exercise peace as they cast their votes… and it is their belief and all of us that the elections will be free and fair.”