The annual students’ elections at Egerton University Nakuru Town campus have hit a homestretch with candidates trying to woo colleagues to vote for them.
The campaigns which began a week ago are on their homestretch with elections only a week away.
The polls which are held to allow students elect new representatives come at a time when the university is also expecting a change of guard in its administration, with a new Vice Chancellor expected to replace the outgoing Prof James Tuitoek.
Most students expressed satisfaction with the way candidates were marketing their policies with some stating that it was difficult to make decisions yet.
“Most of the contestants have very good manifestos and it is not very easy to settle on any so far. All I will do is to listen and make the decision right at the ballot," said Grace Mwilu, a third year Bachelor of Commerce student.
While some students expressed apprehension over the possibility of unrest ensuing after results, others were optimistic that all will be well.
Ronald Onyango, a first year student, said he wasn’t sure about the outcome of the elections.
“The chairman’s position is really generating pressure because everyone believes they deserve it. They may end up inciting their supporters to riot should they lose," he said.
However, Kennedy Kiprop, dispelled the fears sating students were mature enough to accept election outcomes.
"We've always been peaceful during and after elections because we believe in democracy and this year won't be any different," admitted the third year Bachelor of Criminology student.
Unlike previous elections where the chairperson's position has always attracted not more than two contestants, this year is different after four candidates were given the greenlight by the campus' electoral commission to contest.
Other positions being vied for include; vice chair, students’ welfare, director health and wellness, director finance, academic affairs and secretary general.
Some universities such as Maseno and Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology have sent away their students after such elections ended in chaos.