2007 PRESS RELEASES

U. S. Government Statement on Kenyan Elections

December 31, 2007

During the December 27 general elections, the people of Kenya exercised their democratic rights by turning out to vote in record numbers in a generally peaceful and orderly process. The United States congratulates the people of Kenya and urges them to maintain the dignity of the democratic process by eschewing violence.

The United States is, however, concerned by serious problems experienced during the vote counting process.  These included various anomalies with respect to unrealistically high voter turnout rates, close to 100 percent in some constituencies, discrepancies in the numbers of votes reported for the respective candidates, apparent manipulation of some election reporting documents, and long delays in reporting results. 

It is important to note that these problems were not generalized, but rather limited to about 20 percent of the 210 constituencies in the country.  There are allegations of vote tampering made by both the Party of National Unity and the Orange Democratic Movement.  The anomalies and allegations heightened concerns and tensions on both sides and among voters given the closeness of the election.  

The Electoral Commission, headed by Chairman Samuel Kivuitu, declared President Kibaki the winner on December 30. It is important that the rule of law be respected. Those alleging vote tampering may pursue legal remedies and should be able, consistent with respect for freedom of speech, to make their case publicly.  We call on the judiciary to play its role expeditiously and for the government to uphold civic freedoms, including media freedom and political rights.

We strongly condemn and deplore the violence which is taking place, and which took place in the lead-up to the announcement of the results.  Violence harms all the Kenyan people and serves the legitimate interests of no person, group, or party.

In the interests of the Kenyan people, it is incumbent on President Kibaki and leader of the opposition Odinga to promote peace, and to reach out to each other in order to work out a way forward for the nation.  Both sides must refrain from any action that would make cooperation more difficult. Political action based on mutual accommodation and recognition that each side represents a significant portion of the Kenyan electorate will enhance prospects that Kenya can continue to consolidate its democracy and expand economic growth. As a good friend and partner of the Kenyan people, the United States has assured both President Kibaki and opposition leader Odinga that it is willing to help in this process.