Nairobi, 5th March 2013 – On 4th of March 2013, Kenyans voted massively and peacefully to elect their president for the next five years. Despite challenges in the unfolding of the electoral process, the African Union Election Observation Mission (AU-EOM) noted with satisfaction the serenity with which the process was held. The AU EOM was impressed with the high voter turnout and enthusiasm. Isolated violent incidences did not jeopardize the electoral process as a whole. Security was well handled by the Police Forces despite breaches.
In Nairobi, Moi Primary School, some voters told the AU Observer Team led by President Chissano, that they had been queuing since 10:00 pm the day before. Extremely long queues, over a kilometer, were observed. President Chissano’s team witnessed the official opening of the poll at Moi Primary School at 6:00am. Throughout the Election Day, AU teams deployed in Nairobi and throughout the country all commended the peaceful process and were impressed by the patience of voters. The AU-EOM commends the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission for the preparation and plans put in place ahead of the elections. As results trickle in, the public is able to follow live through various media outlets the tallying process.
On 5 March 2013, the AU hosted a meeting of Heads of Election Observation Missions to Kenya, chaired by President Chissano, to share preliminary findings. During this meeting, all leaders commended the people of Kenya for their commitment to holding successful General Elections.
The AU-EOM will hold a press conference on Wednesday 6 March 2013 at 9:00 am at the Norfolk Hotel, Ballroom, to release its preliminary statement.
For further information please contact: Ms. Yaye Nabo Sène Tel: +254 (0) 724 578 381 E-mail: seney@africa-union.org or epsilone10@gmail.com