by Ronald Njoroge
NAIROBI, Aug. 9 (Xinhua) -- Kenya's Acting Cabinet Secretary for Interior and Coordination of National Government Fred Matiang'i on Wednesday appealed for calm as the nation awaits the results for the Aug. 8 polls.
Matiang'i told a media briefing in Nairobi that as the tallying of votes continues throughout the country, Kenyans should maintain peace and rule of law.
"As the Independence Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) concludes the tallying process and determines the leaders, I urge all Kenyans to await in calm," Matiangi said.
He said that Kenyans from all over the country expressed their democratic will through the ballot on Tuesday.
"This has so far been the most peaceful pre-election and election period since independence because of improved management of the electoral process and security of the country," he added.
However, tension has been building up in the East African nation on allegations of fraud in the electoral process. He noted that so far, there have been no major security incidences.
"Our security agencies remain vigilant and are still at hand to provide security and maintain law and order throughout the country. We assure Kenyans and all residents that the country is safe and urge everyone to freely go about their daily chores." he said.
He urged every Kenyan to reject any incitement to cause chaos or participate in any unlawful criminal activity.
"Remember to report any suspicious activities to the police," he noted. According to the senior government official, the election has attracted the highest number of observers and media ever, in the East Africa region.
"The government therefore remains ready to facilitate any person or delegation that wishes to access any part of the country in regards to this election," Matiangi said.
He also sternly warned against the abuse of social media and particularly the circulation of fake news.
