Azimio: Junet did not handle any polling agents’ funds
Azimio la Umoja One Kenya coalition has refuted accusations that Junet misappropriated monies intended to pay election agents at several polling stations on August 9.
The coalition argues, through secretariat spokesperson Makau Mutua, that the Suna East MP never came close to finances and also rejects that a shortage of agents at polling stations was the reason for their loss in the just concluded election.
Makau Mutua says that the claims mostly made on social media are nothing but propaganda.
“Let me state without equivocation that Hon. Mohamed was a campaign lead in the field supporting the Rt. Hon Raila Odinga. He at no time — even once — handled funds meant for agents. Nor did Mr. Mohamed have anything whatsoever to do with the management of agents,” the statement reads in part.
The coalition also says that the presence of agents at polling stations is not a prescription for free and fair elections, and that it should be the responsibility of the electoral commission and other relevant authorities.
“Let me state clearly that the issue of agents was not the cause of a bungled election. We must appreciate that it is not the responsibility of candidates to protect the vote, or conduct a free and fair election. That constitutional duty lies squarely with the IEBC working in concert with relevant institutions. No one should blame Azimio or our candidates for stolen votes or a fatally flawed election,” Makau Mutua says in the letter.
Makau Mutua encouraged individuals responsible for spreading propaganda to stop, citing the possibility of disappointment with the IEBC’s handling of the election and the Supreme Court’s judgment.
Mutua stated that their agents performed admirably throughout the election process.
Jeremiah Kioni, Secretary General of the Jubilee Party, stated a few weeks ago that the absence of Azimio coalition agents in several polling stations, particularly in the Mount Kenya region, was due to frustrations and access restrictions.