The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has deployed 24 election observers across the country ahead of next week polls.

The IGAD head of election observation Dr. Mulatu Teshome flagged off the observers who have been deployed to 18 constituencies across 11 counties.

“I am particularly working closely with leaders of African regional and continental organisations like the African Union (AU) and the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) election observation missions among others. We have one common interest and it is to see a peaceful and credible election in the country and a peaceful transition of power. This will also pave the way for further consolidation of democracy in the republic of Kenya,” said Dr. Teshome.

 The team drawn from six IGAD member states underwent an orientation programme touching on relevant legal frameworks for the polls as well as IGAD code of conduct for election observers.

The team will be stationed in Mombasa, Machakos, Kakamega, Nyeri, Uasin Gishu, Nairobi, Kakamega, Kisii, Kisumu, Nakuru and Kajiado.

Dr Teshome noted “The mission will share its findings in a preliminary statement after election day. A final report containing a more in-depth analysis on the conduct of the electoral process as well as recommendations for future electoral processes will be presented in due course."

On Saturday the team led by Dr Teshome met deputy president William Ruto at his official Karen residence.