Ottawa, Canada, October 9, 2017World Affairs Canada today called on Kenyan leaders and all of its citizens to ensure that the people of Kenya can successfully exercise their democratic rights by participating in free, fair and peaceful presidential elections .
“Canada urges the Kenyans to work together to ensure that the new elections respect the Kenyan Constitution and the laws in force”, the democratic activists group said in a statement.
Canada is concerned about the mounting tensions and protests in Kenya and the fact that the negative political environment creates conditions that undermine the necessary preparations for the October 26 presidential elections, it said.
“Canada urges all Kenyan leaders and citizens to reject violence and hate speech. Such acts could undermine the Constitution of Kenya, the rule of law, and peace and security. No one should ever be threatened with violence for expressing his ideas and opinions. Freedom of expression and a free and vibrant civil society are the foundations of any democracy. ”
“Canada welcomes the efforts of the Independent Electoral and Boundary Commission (IEBC) to bring leaders and parties to dialogue on processes and procedures, and urge the parties to participate fully and concretely. ”
“Canada sincerely hopes that imminent elections will serve as an example to Africa and the world. ”
African Eye Report
