PAP Election Observer Mission to Kenya

The Pan-African Parliament (PAP) has released a statement of its observer mission to Kenya’s general election, which states: "it is the Mission’s considered view that the disputed election fell short of matching the democratic election process and the expression and the will of the people of Kenya."

While the statement begins by noting that the election "was characterized by a remarkably very high voter turnout, calm and orderliness (The Kenyan people were very enthusiastic in their resolve to exercise their democratic right)." and that "the voters approach was inspired by Kenyan nationalism and patriotism as opposed to the tribalism which unfortunately became an issue during post election". The Mission further notes that "Agitated political party agents engaged the ECK officials at the Tallying Centre in a heated confrontation, which got physical among political players in some instances. That skirmish ignited the mood of the populace."

"The premature announcement of the supposedly final presidential election results by the Chairman of the ECK Mr. Kivuitu at a remote and secured place was clearly stage-managed." (...) "not very long thereafter, Mr. Kivuitu somersaulted and stated that he did not know who won the elections because he was forced to make the announcement that he did, throwing the whole of Kenya into a state of chaos, mayhem and confusion. Thereafter, ugly violent scenes escalated."

In conclusion, "the committee’s view is that given the prevailing political situation in Kenya, an election re-run between the two Presidential candidates i.e. Kibaki and Odinga, would be the most pragmatic and ideal solution to be considered."

The full text of the statement is available: STATEMENT_OF_THE_PAN_AFRICAN_PARLIAMENT_ELECTION_OBSERVER_MISSION_TO_KENYA.pdf

The next sittings of the Permanent Committees of the Parliament will be held from March 5 to 14, 2008, in Midrand, Johannesburg.

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