Vincent Chelimo, the National Resistance Movement (NRM) candidate for the Kachorwa LC V chairperson’s seat, has appealed to his rivals and their supporters to maintain peace and unity ahead of the forthcoming local government elections, warning against rising cases of misinformation and inflammatory propaganda.
Chelimo, a radio presenter, says that he has observed an increase in political propaganda that undermines unity among candidates. He is contesting against Everline Chebet Kubarika and Soman Soyekwo of Alliance for National Transformation (ANT). Chelimo notes that although candidates are competitors, peaceful coexistence and integrity must be upheld throughout the electoral process.
“I have witnessed misinformation and disinformation circulating that candidates do not like one another. Yes, we are competing, but we still need to maintain peace and integrity among ourselves,” Chelimo said. He adds that some political mobilisers are spreading propaganda that does not accurately reflect the candidates’ positions, thereby risking tension within communities.
Residents have also raised concerns about intimidation during campaigns. Siwa Moi Daniel, a resident of Kween Cell in East Division, Kapchorwa Municipality, says some supporters of certain candidates are using threatening and abusive language. “Instead of campaigning peacefully, some people issue threats and use words that are not pleasing to the community,” Daniel said.
Mark Cherop Cherirei, the Programs Officer at the Kapchorwa Civil Society Organizations Alliance (KACSOA), also expressed concern over the conduct of campaigns. He observes that instead of presenting clear manifestos, some candidates and their agents focus on attacking opponents.
“Most campaigns are centered on highlighting weaknesses of opponents rather than explaining why a particular candidate deserves the vote. This does not help voters make informed choices,” Cherirei noted.
Cherirei further says that much of the misinformation is driven by individuals seeking personal survival, while candidates themselves often remain calm and focused. Security agencies have echoed similar concerns, urging politicians and their supporters to use responsible language in both media and public engagements to avoid inciting violence. Fredmark Chesang, the Sipi Region Police Spokesperson, says security intelligence has previously prevented potential electoral violence.
“In the recent presidential and parliamentary elections, intelligence reports indicated that some hooligans intended to disrupt the process. Security intervened in time, preventing possible violence or loss of life,” Chesang said. He cautioned voters to exercise their democratic rights responsibly, emphasizing that ignorance of the law is not a defense.“As electorates participate in the electoral process, they should know that violating the law has consequences,” he added.
The Sebei sub-region, traditionally an NRM stronghold, has in recent elections seen shifts in political representation. The ruling party lost key positions, including the Municipality Member of Parliament seat, the Kapchorwa District Woman MP seat, and the Kongasis County MP seat.
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