Speaker Wetang’ula votes, urges high voter turnout in ongoing by-elections

National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has called on security agencies to guarantee voters’ safety in the ongoing by-elections, insisting that every Kenyan must be free to cast their ballot without fear or intimidation.

Speaking on Thursday shortly after casting his vote at Namakhele Primary School, as residents of Chwele–Kabuchai Ward and other parts of the country went to the polls in the closely watched by-elections, Dr. Wetang’ula urged voters in all 16 affected electoral areas to turn out in large numbers and exercise their civic duty.

“I want to encourage Kenyans in those electoral areas participating in this by-election to come out and vote for the candidates of their choice,” the Speaker said.

He appealed to security agencies to provide adequate protection to ensure a free and fair process.

“I ask our security agencies to provide sufficient security to enable people to vote freely. After voting, I encourage citizens to go home and wait for the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission to tally the votes.”

Dr. Wetang’ula assured the electorate that enough security personnel had been deployed across the country to guarantee a peaceful and orderly voting day.

“We want every eligible voter to participate without fear. Security has been enhanced to ensure that people cast their ballots freely and confidently,” he noted.

The Speaker also urged voters to remain vigilant and report any unusual or suspicious activities to the authorities, emphasizing that such vigilance was vital in protecting the integrity of the electoral process.

At the same time, he appealed to police officers on duty to create an environment that allows citizens to freely express their will at the ballot box, underscoring that the role of security agencies goes beyond maintaining order to safeguarding democratic participation.