NASA principal, Raila Odinga addresses supporters. He has maintained there will be no election on October 26. [Photo/www.the-star.co.ke]
A respected international organization, The International Crisis Group, has added its voice to a growing drumbeat of calls for the postponement of the October 26 repeat presidential election.
In a report posted on its website, the independent group committed to conflict prevention, has warned that going forward with the poll would aggravate the tensions in the country and result into violent clashes.
‘’The risk of clashes between rival supporters or between security forces and protesters seeking to block the vote is high.’’ Part of the report read.
The group noted that the IEBC was in a state of disarray, making it ill-equipped to conduct the poll.
The report urged the stakeholders to reach an understanding that would allow the poll to be delayed so as to give the IEBC sufficient time to get its house in order.
‘’The risk of deadly clashes between the two main parties’ supporters, or between security forces and groups seeking to block the vote, is high. Proceeding under current conditions would deepen Kenya’s ethnic cleavages and prolong a stalemate that has already claimed dozens of lives and come at a high economic cost. Kenyan institutions and political leaders should consider a short delay; Odinga in turn should pledge to take part; business elites as well as Kenya’s neighbours and donors should help promote such an outcome.’’ The group said.