European Union Chief elections observer Marietje Schaake.[Photo/ thebigissue.co.ke]The European Union (EU) Election Observation Mission team has lauded IEBC's efforts in undertaking positive measures in meeting recommendations that relate to election management.
In a statement, the EU said if the recommendations are implemented as planned it would provide a foundation for an improved technical electoral process with stronger transparency and integrity measures.
EU said IEBC is responsible for organizing elections, but added multiple actors are responsible for its success and compliance with the Constitution.
“EU recommendations made to political contenders have not seen improvements. The IEBC, judiciary and civil society have been subject to further attacks. Political aggravation has resulted in a stand-off, with violent confrontations between groups of demonstrators and state security forces,” the statement said.
The European body further pointed out that the Elections (Amendment) Bill, passed by the Jubilee MP’s in Parliament and awaiting presidential assent has created confusion.
“The amendments are not required under the Supreme Court’s September 1 ruling, and their timing is not consistent with good practice of the electoral law reform,” it stated.
The mission further said it will continue to observe the electoral process in Kenya with a core team of long term observers in different parts of the country following the Supreme Court’s decision and detailed judgment for the repeat presidential election.
“The EU EOM will focus particularly on the results process, looking at integrity and transparency.”
EU made the statement amid demonstrations by NASA over delayed electoral reforms ahead of the repeat election.
NASA has called for daily nationwide protests agitating for the removal from office of IEBC CEO Ezra Chiloba from office.