Deputy County Commissioner for Nakuru West Sub County Elmi Shaffi addresses participants at Kenya Red Cross, Nakuru. [Photo/Wema Fadhili]
The government will close all bars and other drinking joints two days before elections.
The Nakuru West Deputy County Commissioner Elmi Shaffi says this will help facilitate people vote.
Speaking on Thursday during stakeholders strategic meeting organised by Centre for Enhancing Democracy and Good Governance CEDGG at the Kenya Red Cross, Nakuru branch, the deputy county commissioner said the government has put in place measures to ensure people vote peacefully.
“The bar will be closed on date seven and eight, business will resume on date nine. Our officers will ensure this is observed and implemented to the latter,” Shaffi said.
He also called on elders to be at the forefront in promoting peace and cohesion among the community members living in Nakuru county.
“When I see people moving out of Nakuru for fear of violence, I think you elders have failed in your responsibility in promoting peace. This is sending the wrong message. It’s high time as elders you reclaim your place in the society and be at the forefront of championing peace,” the deputy county commissioner said.
Centre for Enhancing Democracy and Good Governance has been conducting peace activities in Nakuru and Baringo Counties and the chief executive officer Mr Collins Oduor reiterated that all stake holders must be committed to maintaining peace.
“Elections are not a curse. They come and go. Therefore everyone has a civic duty to promote peaceful coexistence in our county. As residents of Nakuru, let us prove them wrong those who think that Nakuru is a hot spot for violence,” Oduor said.