2007 PRESS RELEASES

Diplomatic Missions Observe By-Elections
 
May 17, 2007 

Representatives of the diplomatic missions of Canada, the European Commission, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and the United States based in Nairobi, participated as observers during the by-elections held on May 14, 2007 in Magarini constituency at the invitation of the Electoral Commission of Kenya. Five teams of diplomatic observers visited 37 polling centers, witnessing the opening, balloting, closing, counting, and tallying.

The Electoral Commission should be applauded for the administration of this by-election in extremely difficult weather conditions. We also commend the broad participation of domestic observers. We are encouraged by the peaceful manner in which this election was conducted. At the same time, we are concerned by allegations of electoral misconduct and urge that all formal complaints with supporting evidence be investigated fully.

In the spirit of our partnership with Kenya, we appreciate the opportunity to observe the electoral process as strictly impartial democratic partners. We will continue to follow Kenya's democratic process as the country approaches its next general election, during which we hope all registered voters will exercise their right to participate.

This statement agreed to by Canada, the European Commission, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and the United States.