IEBC chairman Wafula Chepukati. [Photo/ Lolwe TV]
This year's election has been a long wait both the aspirants and the voters. For the first time the general elections are held in August. Previously, they would be held in December.
To start with, there are many things that are making it be very special compared to all others since independence. Take for instance the number of registered voters. This has hit the highest number of 19,600,000 voters. Out of this, 5 million are newly registered voters. This marks the highest number of new registration.
Secondly, the number of election candidates is at its highest. There are about 11500 political aspirants. This includes 8 running for the presidency. However, most of this are independent candidates.There are over 60 political parties taking part in this years election.
Additionally the IEBC has over 40,000 polling stations across the country. This is accompanied by over 20,000 trained election officials. This includes polling clerks, presiding and deputy presiding officers as well as returning officers.
To ensure security during and after the election, the government has involved 150,000 police officers. This is the highest number ever used.
Indeed this election is a special one. All Kenyans are hoping for is free, fair, transparent and accountable results after casting their votes.