...
written by manta ray , December 30, 2007

Kibaki - 4,584,721

Raila - 4,352,993

Kalonzo - 879,903

Now can Kenyans get back to work?

polls
written by khadar mohamed , December 30, 2007

I believe Raila should have been declared winner but he should live to fight another day. It is totally rigged,any one with slightest iota of intelligence knows that. what next for Raila,he should accept the result and appeal to his followers to calm down and move on. If you take another route,consequences are dire,remember Somalia.

...
written by knjenga , December 30, 2007

God help us!!!

...
written by manta ray , December 30, 2007

This is the tragedy of African politics. Raila will very likely now become significantly less influential and be reduced to a tribal warlord as the Kibaki succession stakes now begin in earnest.

...
written by Kamale , December 30, 2007

Yesterday I had a wish.

Man U loses to West Ham United

Arsenal Beats Everton

Kibaki wins the election.

Who says there is no GOD?

What next?
written by abdulmote , December 30, 2007

Kenyans are certainly in for a tough time ahead. This one is not going to be easy to simply brush aside na 'kazi iendelee' kama kawaida. There is a strong public perception that the final outcome was definitely rigged in favour of Kibaki. Yet neither party can be said to be wholly and entirely credible and free from blame.

As a neutral observer, I was especting such an outcome well before the elections. But sadly just as well, I could not take my thoughts beyond the declared outcome when it gets to be done. I fear my country and my people, yet I can see nothing that I can offer as a good sensible solution.

The ECK's announcement is meant to shift the stalement to another venue. Whether that was the right thing to do is a debate for another day. For the moment, Raila and ODM have very few choices to make. They can if they choose, swallow their pride, hope and aspirations and go to the Courts for a legal abitration and just hope that justice will prevail. But again, will the Judges be expected to be completely fair and balanced in their deliberations for such a case? Faith in the final judgement dictates the route of acceptance for the same on those concerned.

On the other hand, the ODM can opt for an attempt at the so called 'Orange revolution'. I am inclined to think that this may be more tempting a route for them. But again, there is no certainly as to the final consequencies if that be the case. It is but a gamble.

The other option is the use of brute force if they are capable of harnessing the same for their successful outcome. Obviously this route is not a pleasant one and I hope they will excercise maximum restraint if at all they may consider it as an option.

Finally, let us all pray for wisdom and peace to prevail on our young nation. Those of us who are in far away lands, enjoying the peace and tranqulity of the developed nations, must spare a thought for those we may have left behind at home and pray that this dark cloud will pass through in peace for the sake of the people of our great nation. Amen.

god bless us everyone
written by Stephen Wanyama , December 30, 2007

Commission Chairman Samuel Kivuitu is at State House for the swearing in. The American Ambassador and the UK Ambassador are calling for Kenyans to respect the ECK's announcement.

Now, more than that even, the BBC and Sky News are announcing that Kibaki has won.

god save us
written by knjenga , December 30, 2007

Kibaki should form a government of national unity with Raila as executive PM? All other avenues like impeachment and the courts are not going to work. A Ukrainian Orange type movement is just going to result in the deaths of our citizens. This cant end well for Kenya.

It is definitely a sad day
written by Nekessa , December 30, 2007

I am usually private about my emotions, but I will have to share this. As I write this, I have tears streaming down my face. Over the last couple of days, I have watched and waited anxiously with Kenyans all over the world for the results. To be honest, I did not particularly care who won. As the days have gone by I have watched Kenya degenerate really fast. I listened as people had tribal discussions, as even those I thought were "progressive" only spoke of the presidential elections in terms of the tribal wars.

And then I watched as calls for fairness were made. And then as tension grew. I have watched a video of my city in flames. My friends and family are stuck in their homes afraid to go to the store or work.... .

And now, we wait... .

...
written by Nekessa , December 30, 2007

Monday has been declared a public holiday.

...
written by Sly , December 30, 2007

Added: Sunday, 30 December, 2007, 16:14 GMT 16:14 UK

What a load of rubbish!, Raila minions cry foul when they start to lose but when they rig in their own stronghold they accept no foul play. It was all a matter of who cheats better , Raila learn from the best , you were beaten at your own game, go back and do your homework then come back and play again. What Raila needs to do is to stop his potential war -mongering and tell his supporters to maintain calm and order. Show your leader ability and prove to the world that you can be reasonable.

Sly, Bochum

Just for the record
written by Nekessa , December 30, 2007

I am neither an ODM nor a PNU supporter. I am, however, disappointed in the circus that the whole process became.

...
written by Mohamedali , December 30, 2007

It is such a relief and great news to read that Mr. Kibaki won though with a very narrow margin.

Those in the ODM who are accusing others of rigging should first investigate their own party before throwing stones at others.

I have pictorial evidence of at least a couple of ODM candidates ferrying voters to and fro early on the morning of 27th December.

These two with the help of their families and supporters, also gathering stones, sticks, hoes, grass cutters, spades, etc., yesterday mid-day in readiness to create chaos in the neighbourhood. Unfortunately, I was not in a position to take pictures, as I had to leave and try to escape the resultant damage they could have done to my car. But, as I left, I did ring the DCIO to inform him of what was about to happen in my neighbourhood.

I wonder what would have happened if Mr. Odinga had won....?! Most likely, they would have started celebrating his victory in the most obnoxious manner, as they were doing since the 27th..., even before any results were announced.

In fact, this neighbourhood will now get some much needed peace and quiet where otherwise, we'd been spending sleepless nights. What utter relief!

And I have no sympathies for the ODM so-called leadership. The guy has proved himself to be a professional rabble rouser.

Razia.

...
written by Natasha , December 30, 2007

Live television suspended now. There is a media Act that allows Internal Minsiter Michuki to take this action.

...
written by Kamale , December 30, 2007

To forestall any further incitement, the government has BANNED all media houses from providing LIVE coverage to any event.

Kibaki\'s Swearing In Speech
written by Silaha , December 30, 2007

Kibaki's Swearing In Speech:

I tried to capture parts of MK's speech as it streamed. I'm not that great a typist so it is close but not verbatim, but it's better than nothing.

Fellow Kenyans,

Following the announcement of the presidential election result by the ECK, I stand behind you humbly and grateful for the opportunity you have given me to serve you again as your President for a second five year term.

I thank all Kenyans who voted in large numbers in these elections. I thank all of you for the trust you have bestowed in me in renewing my mandate. Which I accept with sincere gratitude and humility.

I am confident that together we shall succeed in changing our country into a better home for all Kenyans.

The elections were very closely contested. I thank those of our brothers and sisters who voted for me and other presidential candidates for expressing their democratic right and choice. As a democrat I acknowledge and respect the right of every Kenyan to choose candidates of their choice.

With the elections behind us now, I assure them that as President of Kenya I will serve everyone equally, irrespective of the person they may have voted for.

I urge everyone of us to set aside the passions that were excited by the electoral process and work together as one people with the single purpose of building one strong, united, prosperous and equitable country.

I wish to commend my opponents especially Kalonzo Musyoka and Raila Odinga, they campaigned strongly and garnered support from across the country. I call up on all the political leaders to set aside their differences. Let us all work together to build consensus on issues of national inportance, including a new constitution and any matter that benefits and improves the welfare of our people.

We have done our nation proud and set a good example for the rest of the continent through the conduct of free and fair elections.

The freedom of choice, the openness and integrity of the electoral process and the peaceful manner in which we conducted ourselves as people has raised Kenya's democratic profile throughout the world.

I am particularly pleased that millions of Kenyans in the largest voter turnout seen in the country chose to exercise their democratic right to elect a new team of political leaders. Most notbale is the fact that so many young people have participated in the electoral process for the first time either as candidates or as voters. These are good developments that testify to the strength of our nation's democratic culture.

I am proud to note that in holding free and fair elections in our country, both in our just concluded elections and int he referendum two years ago we have demonstrated to the world that we are politically mature and capable of nuturing and upholding democracy.

I thank the ECK, our security agents, observers and all other stakeholders, for remaining committed to the conduct of honest, orderly and credible elections that have enabled the true verdict of the people of Kenya to prevail. I urge upon all candidates and Kenyans in general to accept the verdict of the people.

With the general election now behind us it is a time for healing and reconciliation among all Kenyans. We need to heal the differences that have been created amongst us between different communities, regions and religions.

I urge all of us to set aside the bitter divisive views and opinions that we heled during the election period and instead embrace each other as brothers and sisters. After all we all belong to one family called Kenya.

On my part as your President, I will personally lead our country in promoting unity tolerance peach and harmony among all Kenyans. I urge all political and religious leaders to do the same.

As I pledged to Kenyans during the campaign I will shortly form a "clean hands" government that reflects the face of Kenya. A new PNU government will incorporate affiliated parties and other friendly parties. I also pledge to ensure that our young people and women are fully represented in public appointments.

I will ensure development of all parts of the country and to ensuring justice and equal treatment of all Kenyans. My governement will be committed to the task of creating and sustaining a prosperous, secure, and equitable future for all Kenyans.

In conclusion, fellow Kenyans, you have given us a vote of confidence in the values of freedom, equality, and development that we began 5 years ago.

You have chosen the people you want to represent you for the next 5 years. You have given us an agenda which we will see implemented in the next 5 years. I humbly respect your choices and your agenda.

In return, I ask all of us, and particularly all leaders to embrace a new spirit of National Unity. Respect the peoples' choice and maintain peace, law and order. Let us choose to live to gether in the true democratic spirit of tolerance and mutual respect. Let us all endeavor to build a society that lives in harmony and at peace with itself.

In the last few days many Kenyans have had a hectic time in preparation for these events. To give all of us deserved rest and to prepare for New Year celebrations, I declare tomorrow Dec 31 a public holiday

I thank you God bless you all and God bless Kenya.

Let\'s go to the Circus!
written by Beta , December 30, 2007

Two Points:
1. I'm no nationalist, neither am I tribeless. I, therefore, celebrate the outcome of this election based on my tribe!
2. Until political parties mean anything to a majority of Kenyans, we'll continue to witness stuff similar to the just concluded charade every five years.
Kenyans, happy and sad, it's time to suck it up and start to seriously think about my preceding point!

Kenyans have made their choice
written by Kobangoshe Komora (KK) , December 30, 2007

Elections is meant to produce winner and looser, and that is an inevitable outcome no matter what. Looser's pain in accepting their fate is well justified, but it is the reality of life and not much can be done about it.

Winner's happiness on the other hand is evident in their face, as the celebrate their victory. The reality is that this is the reality of life.

The options Abdulmote is suggesting can well be understood, as more so given the safety of the international capitals where Abdulmote type of persons are sitting pritty. To majority of Kenyans living inside the country, maintainance of peace is paramount, and the outcome of the 2007 elections is no good reason for resorting to anarchy. There no doubt some irregularities here and there across board and transcending the main political parties and ECK. The fact that in some constituencies, as amny as 93-99% turn out has been reported in Nyatike, Ndhiwa and Nithi etc, it is evidence that such a turn out is bound to be suspect. No one of the key political parties can honestly claim to be clean in that respect.

For ODM to have taken the law unto their hands to announce their own victor as 'president' of Kenya was playing mischief. Hon Mudavadi and Hon Anyag' Nyong' acted stupid in doing so, and they should be ashamed. The riots that followed in various parts of the country were triggered by incitement the two made to ODM supporters. ECK is the only institution with legal mandate to conduct an announce election results, no matter how long they may take to ready such results. Anxiety among supporters of various political parties not withstanding, ECK can only announce results its is satisfied are correct in all respect. Any interested party who is disatisfied with such results, have the arbitration window to persue the matter in a court of law.

I must also differ with Abdulmote and suggest that he can not claim to take a neutral position. His opening statement is enough to show his contempt of the adminstration in Nairobi under the president who continues in office following a new mandate by Kenyan people. All of us, as Kenyans living inside or outside the country had afiliation to one or the other political party and presidential aspirant. Even ECK commissioners cast their votes based on their choices, and deep in them, they know who there preference was as individuals. No one could therefore pretend to be neutral.

Way forward, will now mean people return to normal life and continue to build the nation. Healing the wounds of campaigns should be every worthy leader's agenda and priority. The youth must realize recklessnes and riots will not change the outcome of the elections. Thoughts of an orange revolution is the most wild imagination, and ill adviced way to resort to. Elections come and go, but Kenya and her people will remain. Raila can always try it again next time, and let's hope he learnt something as well from this experience. Kalonzo too must have taken home with him a couple of lessons. Ruto, Nyagah, Sirma, Orengo, Balala, Anyang', Mudavadi, Kosgei will also realise being humble does not cost anything. They should do some homework and play it smarter next time. They should never take Kenyans for granted next time.

reactions
written by emmo opoti , December 30, 2007

I have immensely conflicted emotions, for one I was very opposed to the chicanery of the ODM project, but we all need to see our country as belonging to all of us.

The tragedy of this election was all the macho posturing, the threats and the grand-standing. There was a particular sense of dread and panic in some parts of the country and an exuberance in others. The end result was never going to be democratic, not even had the ECK chosen to swing the other way.

Where do we go from here?

Political Relevance of Result
written by beta , December 30, 2007

Personality-centered politicking is one futile exercise that we Kenyans have to wean ourselves from. Kibaki, Raila, Kalonzo, Moi et al are people bequeathed to us by our narrowness of imagination. Why? Because however much educated we get, we forget that a person per se is basically selfish. "I" is as subjective as "He". It follows that when one ("I") is talking to you about themselves, they will traverse the realm of subjectivity much the same way you do when you talk about that person ("He").
Before we realize any meaningful change in our beloved country, we must understand that not one single person can "be a bridge" (wtf are we crossing, anyway?); not one of those "tribal mis-chiefs" will lead us to the realization of our national dreams; not one of those loudest, thieving noisemakers will push our collective agenda. Our dreams and aspirations are real, objective and achievable. Yet, we cannot entrust them to individuals.
The solution lies in the development of a small number institutions (read political parties) whose initial goal will be not to win elections (as absurd as this may sound), but to re-energize the grassroots. By this I mean teach the common person the real truth about the madness the past and current leaders have created and sewn into the social fabric so well such that they have effectively blinded our search for good governance, by way of deviating attention to them away from us. These parties will also involve the regular person in decision making.
From these humble beginings, these parties shall grow to be respected by their members and leaders. This will in the long-run mean no individual shall hijack the will of the people by them posing as the solution, bridge, or saviour. The party shall be greater than the individual not by word, but by energy the grassroots shall infuse into the party. The people shall be able to finally say with credibility that we are indeed a sovereign nation.

Sad day my country
written by Bernard Onyango , December 30, 2007

Whether PNU or ODM supporter, it is a sad day for our country. ECK has failed to do a credible job and whichever side would have won, the results would have been disputed. In my opinion, in a close election in Africa, the incumbent uses his power to tilt the judgement in his favor. This is what has happened.

Having said that, the fact that Kibaki has already been sworn in means there is no turning back. Rather than add to the misery of the country visited upon us by the ECK, aggrieved people should in the interest of peace and protection of life and property let the country move on.

A positive is that many of Kibaki's hawkish MPs were kicked out. This should send a message to him that a lot of people were not happy with his government. He should search his soul and hopefully correct the areas in which he went wrong for the next five years.

God have mercy on Kenya.

...
written by kanyanja , December 30, 2007

Kamale,

How come we had exactly the same wishes!!. Surely there is a God

...
written by magzk , December 30, 2007

Raila has declared himself president and intends to form a parallel government!

I see history repeating itself with Raila starting doen his late father's path.

...
written by Eva Osoro , December 30, 2007

There is a famous swahili saying "Asiyekubali kushindwa si mshindani". I know we all have dreams and sometimes wish they can all go our way. I am not happy but what can I do when I am just one person. I know people have for a long time dreamed of a change in our government ... it takes one step to do this. I applaud those that did something small here or there to make this change possible. There is always tomorrow and then we can continue to make the said changes in our government possible. For the time being why not just work to see our country grow.

The one thing I pray the most for is that above anything that peace prevails. I have always thought Kenyans to be more intelligent and I hope to God we live up to our own reputation. I just want to see my country back to its former self ... prospering in the world. It's not just a big dream it is something I wish Kenya more than anything. We are bigger than our tribes and whatever other things we believe, because at the end of the day we are all human. God doesn't see me as just Kisii and less deserving of some things in life. I believe God sees us all as equal humans who deserve to achieve anything in life we put our minds to. So do I really have brilliant things to say about these elections ... I don't think so. I just pray that Kenya remains its peaceful self.

No need
written by Bernard Onyango , December 30, 2007

Raila has declared himself president and intends to form a parallel government!

I see history repeating itself with Raila starting doen his late father's path.

A parallel government does not make sense. It will only cause more tension, loss of life and property and complete muzzling of the opposition. As it is, the press is already being gagged.

If he believes he really won, let Raila be content at being "the people's president" and not cause any more misery to the people. Let him not sink to the same level as he thinks his opponents have. Not always do you conquer as one Al Gore learned and moved on to make his mark in a different arena.
I would support a people's revolution if he won by 80 or 90 percent and was denied victory. The truth is that he was pretty even with Kibaki and none of the two got even 50%. Therefore a people's revolution cannot work. It is a stalemate.

...
written by Razia , December 30, 2007

I totally agree with KK and the ODM leadership should for the sake of our country and it's people accept their defeat.

When they are talking about forming a parallel govt., it is just inciting more violence.

This is exactly why so many people seem to have voted for Kibaki's return rather than for Mr. Odinga. His record shows that he's a rabble rouser and out to make trouble.

Look what he did to KANU before the 2002 elections? Or even during the referendum in 2005. While he might have been right in some cases, the way, he chooses to take is not the way of peace, law and order.

Why is he so hell bent on being the President, anyway? As KK says, he's much younger and therefore, he could give it another try comes 2012. Is he that impatient? And in the process, what impression is he creating in the country?

In fact, after hearing him speak and listening to his intentions (as though his party members were totally above board regarding rigging), many people will probably be regretting giving him their vote.

Kibaki illegitimate
written by a guest , December 30, 2007

Illegitimate is what Kibaki is in his second term as president. He will get little or no support in Rift Valley, Coast, parts of Western, Nyanza, and even parts of N.Eastern.

Classic Pyrrich victory.

Britain enters fray
written by magzk , December 30, 2007

The British have entered the fray, (guess on whose side) releasing a statement that basically picks on a single irregularity in a Kibaki constituency to cast doubt on the entire election.

They have also made a comment about being eager to work with a legitimate Kenyan government that I interpret to be a hint that they will be pushing the angle in international circles that a Kibaki government is not a legitimate government.

This is getting interesting by the minute.

get back to life
written by Mr Shah , December 30, 2007

Its time things got back into shape. As a fellow Kenyan I am very much interested in who won the elctions but honestly the true losers are us at the moment. Celebrating this festive season by staying indoors with fear and grief, difficult to get the basic necessities like milk and bread as every place is closed down in fear. Everyone should accept all this, get back to a normal life of making money and enjoying it and leave this politics to those playing it. The country is suffereing much more this way and this should be used positively as an example for the next elcetions whereby regulations should be revised to create more transparency for the entire nation and the world at large. Even if Raila became president i think Kenya would have been run the same way Kibaki is running it, there will only be some minor differences.

Kivuitu\'s s***s
written by a guest , December 30, 2007

Can we take a moment to put ourselves in Kivuitu's shoes. I mean the same people who were out in the streets to have him run the comission and when he tries to organise the elections in an organised fashion everyone and their uncle Bob including the same people who were crying for you to do you job are trying to do your job for you even going as far as trying to count the ballots from themselves while shouting from the rooftops how they have won the elections before your people can even finish counting the votes and when you eventually do finish these same people now call you corrupt because they didn't get power

Raila lost a chance to demonst
written by Newton , December 30, 2007

Raila's behaviour has left a lot to be desired. He is a bitter competitor who has opted to incite rather than lead. Raila was not going to accept anything other than a win. He should swallow is pride, concede gracefully and move on. He is an alarmist best suited for advocacy but not leadership. He has a chance to prove maturity and show leadership but he opted to screw the chance instead.

kibaki doesnt care about kenya
written by cathy , December 30, 2007

i do not condone violence.it is never an answer.howeve but kibaki handled things badly.what is happening was predictable.he should have also called for a recount or something.being sworn in in secret in statehouse was not the answer.so he is the one responsible for the chaos. Does he think that kenya is bigger than him?

there has to be a recount.thats for sure.this is not an issue we can brush a side and say business goes on as usual.it wont happen.

kibaki has singlehandedly killed democracy in kenya.no he has the opportunity to undo his act>

he should resign and agree to a recount
that is the only way peace os to get back to kenya

dreams dreams dreams
written by a guest , December 30, 2007

Wake up! Neither Kibaki nor Raila would resign for a recount

Recount? then what?
written by a guest , December 30, 2007

For the last 2 days the ESK has bent over backwards to accomodate ODM demands, even going as far as to audit results from all 210 constituencies.

Raila will never be satisfied, even if a recount is done, if he is not declared prsident.

And believe, in the event of a recount and Kibaki win, he will still bring up more issues.

still recovering.....
written by a kenyan in italy , December 30, 2007

so its now a reality that its not possible for opposition to pull out the current government that easy! ok...i see. but is that true democracy and leadership. at the end of the day what people feel about the county's leadership that matters.
i dont support any party but what i have seen in kenya now is what i call total MESS for a still growing nation. why all this?? kwani is it wrong if we have a change of leadership, after all we are all kenyans belonging to same kenya.
i hate this and i dont accept the new president not that i hate him or what no but because he has occupied the seat not belonging to him.

...
written by mumu , December 30, 2007

currently in Kenya.

There is widespread violence, unrest and rioting all over the country following the announcement by ECK and hurried swearing in of Kibaki. Most of the country feels the results to be fraudulent and imposed upon them.

Violence largely along ethnic lines, huge backlash against Kikuyu's throughout the country, especially in Rift Valley areas. Eldoret is on fire, major unrest, can hear gunfire and screaming out there. In some towns, youth going door to door ejecting Kikuyu's and Kamba's. Residents seeking security in police stations, some of which are overwhelmed by protesters. It is Kenya's worst nightmare. This is not the country we know.

Gun fire and military helicopters all over Nairobi. Kisumu is on fire, so are most major towns all way to Mombasa. Likely to start seeing evacuation of tourists and foreigners.

A sad sad day for our country.

...
written by manta ray , December 30, 2007

Raila has now declared that he will be sworn in tomorrow in a parallel ceremony at Uhuru Park. He has called his supporters to gather at Uhuru Park but has been given an unequivocal warning by Maj.Gen Ali, the Police Commissioner, that the ceremony has been banned and that he will be arrested if he dares to go ahead.

Interpretations
written by a guest , December 30, 2007

After being party to the ending the Moi regime, raising millions out of poverty and heading a government that has made Kenya's Economy free of foreign influence in a way not known in our history and basically turning Kenya into an Evconomic and Soial beacon of light for thw whole of Africa you want to say that his legacy will be a period of 3 days marked by misinformation, lies Brinkmanship and general chaos that is as much a result of Raila's refusal to let other people do their job.

...
written by manta ray , December 30, 2007

These expressions of unrest cannot go on for ever. Disorganised mobs cannot change such a momentous outcome. It is wishful thinking to imagine that Raila can take on the Govt and its security forces in such a manner by calling people into the streets and hope to prevail. Already the overwhelming power of the State has been demonstrated by the single act of blinding and cutting off Raila's single most powerful connection to the people by muzzling the media.
How on earth do you coordinate a sustained COUNTRYWIDE protest campaign under such circumstances, unless of course, you do not mind these angry young men being used as endless cannon fodder?
On the other hand, the more violence there is, the more support he will lose from many of his supporters especially those outside Luo Nyanza and the RV as they come face to face with the ugly reality of fighting determined security forces in a life and death struggle. Just ask those who took on the GSU immediately post the Likoni clashes. Those people were just as aggrieved against the State, to the extent of forming armed militias. They lost that confrontation, and it will be no different this time.
Raila should just throw in the towel and look for more peaceful means to get back at Kibaki.

Tyrants Always Fail
written by Silaha , December 30, 2007

When I despair, I remember that all through history the ways of truth and love have always won. There have been tyrants, and murderers, and for a time they can seem invincible, but in the end they always fall. Think of it - always.

Mahatma Gandhi
Indian political and spiritual leader (1869 - 194

Chaos in Kisumu
written by Kay , December 30, 2007

ok, so what, Kibaki has won, Calm was restored but as soon as he was announced President and even at this time as I speak I am earing gun shots..., in the morning there were like 10 GSU trucks parked in Kisumu town, turning it into a ghost town...I am not suprised, not after what happened yesterday, a ton reduced to ashes, as they say, ashes to ashes, dust to dust... All has been said and done. We are one nation, some of us come from different backgrounds and tribes, what does it matter if who is a kyuk or a luo? Going back in time, When Kenya fought for independence, was anyone looking for tribe? All that Kenyans wanted was independence, and we got it. Now, after all this work, years of building a country and whats more, after the beautification of Kisumu, Eldoret, Kericho, but more so, Kisumu that has been reduced to ashes....just the other day I was impressed with the garden paint work in town..what are we doing? Is this what we want? Why do we have to fight against each other? Steal from each other?
Where are the leaders that are needed?
To me, What happened in Kisumu yesterday is not acceptable. What happens tomorrow? I am sure there is a more mature way of handling issues, and I Believe that ECK should have handled this in a different way too but the damage has already been done. You and I will need a job, you and i will need a favor, you and I will need someone to count on or depend on..then what? Who will we turn to? What you in one hour or one minute can destroy your future. I casted my vote, I just pray to God for peace and solidarity. Let''s unite the same way we united during the bomb blast...where no one knew tribe or race but helped each other....

Finally..........Let\'s pray..
written by Kay , December 30, 2007

" OH GOD OF ALL CREATION,
BLESS THIS OUR LAND AND NATION,
JUSTICE BE OUR SHIELD AND DEFENDER,
MAY WE DWELL IN UNITY, EACE AND LIBERTY,
PLENTY BE FOUND WITHIN OUR BORDERS..."

AMEN

Ponzi Math
written by a guest , December 30, 2007

So Kibaki has 50,145 votes on Friday, but by Sunday those numbers have metamorphosed to 75,261 votes.

Who cooked these Meru numbers?

...
written by a guest , December 30, 2007

Perhaps ODM agents had hidden one ballot box when they he had 50,145. When they found it, opened it up and counted the votes, voila 75,261.

Perhaps!

A very disgusted Kenyan.
written by Mark Anthony , December 30, 2007

I had high regard for Kibaki during the elections and belived everything would be ok. Iam ashamed and disgusted at what has just happened.
Kenya was on course to be one of the few democratic countries in Africa.
Why was he sworn in as head of state an hour after the results? Could someone please help me explain this to the world.

...
written by a guest , December 30, 2007

Probably to preempt Raila swearing himself in, given that Raila had already declared himself president.

Well, at least you must admit it was impeccable timing, given that Raila was on air within minutes declaring that he's swearing in would be tomorrow.

...
written by a guest , December 30, 2007

Just one question, can anyone provide proof of Kibaki saying he would not accept defeat,accused anyone else of rigging, or even made any sentiments to promote the idea that anything other than a poll victory to himself would only be a result of riggin?

Please Kenyans, come to your s
written by Bernard Onyango , December 30, 2007

The damage is done. How do we stop it from escalating. My Kikuyu friends in Kisumu are refugees at the police station. Thugs are taking advantage to loot, kill and maim in the name of ethnicity.
It is not worth it whether Kibaki stole the election or not. It is unfortunate that in 2002 we united as a nation and 5 years down the road we are torn assunder. For the sake of peace let Raila concede. Like wise, rather than use draconian tactics like arresting Raila and co (which only inflames the situation), religious leaders and international partners should be asked to prevail upon ODM to concede. We survived Moi for 24 years, we shall survive Kibaki for another 5 years.

God have mercy.

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written by a guest , December 30, 2007

If a nation's leader is bad, whether one is legitimate or not, it does not matter, one is and remains to be a bad leader, the original public mandate aside, but even so one's badness cannot be ignored.

And if a leader be good but anyhow illigitimate in one's standing, that leader cannot be a good leader for the people. One cannot certainly be a good leader, without the people's consent or in defiance of their wishes. A leader's good indeed can only be derived from the majorities' consent and mandate as specified therein.

But in our sad case which we have all witnessed today, I find it difficult to imagine that anyone can simply turn a blind eye to the gross betrayal of trust the Commission has brought about upon the people of Kenya after such a costly excercise. This I say not as a partisan observer here, but as one of those who feel that they have been psychologically abused and insulted by Kibaki and his puppets through the subject process and the eventual outcome.

For me personally, and let me reiterate for the umpteenth time that it never mattered as such whoever was to come out as the eventual winner, be it Raila or Kibaki. To me, they were indeed only capable of providing the people of Kenya with slightly different but almost similar governership which would certaily be heavily tainted with well known but corrupt elements of the worst kind as we can imagine . Whilst many are inclined to dwell and believe in Raila's rhetoric and even probably hot air promises, I think I have seen many others before like him, and surely they do provide ample examples for good observations in support of my hypothesis. Besides this, Raila is inevitably sorrounded and certainly enjoys the same support of the very people who at one time or another seriously committed or indeed are still committing their own gravely sins against the electorate. It is again inevitable that such a corrupt support ODM and Raila enjoys, is going at one time sooner or later, actively try to go back to their trends and carry on to persue what originally had motivated them to do what they were intent on doing. Ladies and gentlmen, many from both sides of the divid are certainly not people of good characterics and that we must notice and acknowledge.

Having said that, we have all witnessed that the subject count down was critically not free from unacceptable levels of doubts, which consequentially and indeed correctly so, renders the whole process's legitimacy as void.

Now the proceeding debate becomes difficult. So many today can hardly think straight. The whole nation has been tense and stressed to its limits for the past four or five days. Many have spent sleepless nights and miserable days with the elections occupying a good part of their thoughts and feelings. Understandably many are tired or exhausted.

But there are also strong emotions being generated among the affected in various ways and response to the same. Some are confused, numb or stunned. Others are angry, fearful or even feel hopeless!

Please let us all take our time in this that it may not get out of hand. Reality does not evaporate with time, but unreasonable emotions do.

abdulmote

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written by Anonymous , December 31, 2007

This is the saddest day in Kenya's history. KM you have done a great job covering this event, and we hope you continue to do so for the sake of Kenya and its democracy and justice.

I am very impartial to who should be elected as the president of Kenya. However what Kibaki has done is a 'face in the slap" of democracy. Let's look at some facts here:

(1) Vote counting was delayed for days?
(2) Why was Kivuitu holed up in Statehouse?
(3) Why does Kivuiti need to take orders from Statehouse, when he is the only personal to make the final decision based on the actual audited results?
(4) Why were audited results of the elections not published?
(5) Why did Kibaki hurriedly swear himself in?
(6) Kivuiti addmitted he has no idea of his election commissioners whereabouts? How is that possible in this day and age?
(7) Observers have cried foul over the process of ECK and it handling of vote counting?
( Why is Kibaki afraid of a recount? Even Wangari Maathai has suggested this should be the way to relieve any doubt.
(9) How can a presidential candidate win just from 2 constituencies in Kenya?
(10) Why ban the media from covering events in Kenya?

The factual evidence is all to see that these elections have been rigged beyond any doubt, and they should have nullfied the results in view of such anomalies. That would be the best verdict for all Kenyans.

What we now witness is not democracy but a totally political dictatorship that is controlled by the few elite in Kenya. The people of Kenya should stand up for this injustice, and make the government fully accountable and produce the results in an open and transparent manner. Let the world see. If Kibaki has genuinely won this election, then why does he need to be afraid to show such documents.

Kenya has always been an example of a peacful and democratic country in Africa. However, what has happened infront of the eyes of the world is shameful and unacceptabe by anyone.

If this country has to be governed in peace, then results need to be recounted, verified and audited or the elections must be held again. Kenya is bigger than any individual, and there is no way that a government should be elected if the voting population has not given its mandate legally.

Unfortunately, there will be a lot of bloodshed during this process, as democracy comes at a price especially when the elections are not fairly and honestly won by any party.

We as Kenyans want peace, and no one should be hurt or die in the process, but if the parties involved in this process are not honest abouts its intention then we Kenyans will have to suffer the longest.

The country has taken 10 steps back, and if we want to move forward, then justice must prevail at all costs!!!

God Bless our beloved country and the people of this country, as the Kenya from yesterday has change forever.

Pity
written by kenyan , December 31, 2007

I had soo much hope for our country but as i watched the online stream.. I could not believe what I was seeing.. it was like a movie happening.. sure there are cases that both parties rigged the elections... (maybe it was a case of who would draw their gun first) but case and point peace is more important.. i dont want to feel like I am trapped in this country coz some idiots are fighting over power... GOD help us and our families back home in the mother land...

Looking for peace
written by anonymous , December 31, 2007

I for one believe the only way forward for all at this point is for Kibaki to yield. This would at least allow him and his tribesmen a five year hiatus to come back into the Kenyan fold. Despite the process of the election and its mishandling from both sides we as Kenyans cannot ignore the fact that the votes sent a strong message to one particular community (which now the whole world is intent on reporting) and many arguments can be made as to why that happened during the whole campaign period. The fact still remains the opposition would not have been able to tap into those frustrations and bring out this particular observation unless it was something most Kenyans were feeling. Sadly Kibaki has only added fuel to that particular fire.

1 + 1 = 4 kivuitimatics
written by Bob Agevi , December 31, 2007

The US and the British governments Sunday asked all presidential candidates to accept the results of the just concluded General Election.
The candidates may accept them but will the 9 million Kenyans accept them. Some of these millions will have to accept twice as they voted

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written by Bob Agevi , December 31, 2007

A sad day indeed

What is in an image
written by Wuod Aketch , December 31, 2007

Kibaki and his clique forgot that the booming part of the economy in which most of his friends have invested in, like the Nairobi stock exchange, Safaricom, Telecom Kenya, the tourism industry ...etc depend on the image of the country.
It is this image that the people who have been robbed of their civic rights are going to try very hard to influence. The man from the slums or upcountry has nothing to lose if that image of a stable Kenya is chamfered. Most of these people have been left out of the economic festivities and fallouts. The poor are determined to get their voices heard - this will is stronger than the call for a calm that a Raila or a Ruto can yell.

Of course those that have stakes at the NSE are asking the trodden man to forget and continue as if nothing had happened.

If Kibaki does not give back to the people what he has stolen from them, then we might as well expect our country to become another Somalia and Rwanda combined in the next few days. Let us not create "martyrs" = kamikazes aka Al-Qaeda operatives like the ones you hear of in muslim countries.
Kibaki has sold this country to the dogs - both literally and hypothetically.

The shooting of unarmed civilians by the police forces and GSU all over the country should cease immediately - We are now in 2007 nearing 2008 and not 29 years back.

As has been reported by some forumers above, the question that most here will avoid to ask, but I dare to, is, are we already living a debut of genocide in Kenya?

...
written by andy , December 31, 2007

Its such a shame 43 people dead in kisumu and 15 in nairobi yet most of us are joking. our country is up in flames please its time for peace not jokes. Our leaders should now think about us. fine kibaki has won its time he unites this country otherwise many kenyans are going to die.

Curfew
written by Kay , December 31, 2007

Curfew been ordered in Kisumu. An army troup too....anyne found n town or in violation will be shot dead........My friends dad shot and died last night...And I thought the new government would do us good???

Fighting for democracy
written by Antony , December 31, 2007

I hear some of you say we should just accept the results and continue. Oh no! I believe most of you saying so are not in Kenya to see the poverty on the ground. Another 5 years of double looting of the public's money? Again I say no! Kenyans have spoken and it is time they be heard. It is now or never. The current dictatorship is unacceptable and must be rooted out at all costs so we can have a people's government. Democracy has never come cheap without bloodlet. Those of you now in the west ripping the fruits of their democracy should just glance at their history to see what they went through to achieve such level of democracy. I am saying we the people here in Kenya will never sit down and watch our country get raped but will fight to the bitter end even it means death. Pouring the military on the streets to forcibly quell us just aggregates more chaos. Neither will muzzling the media nor shooting us save the situation. Kibaki is clinging to power at all costs at the peril of Kenyans to protect his cronies. No more and now I am going out to the streets with others to battle it out together with the thousands who are already there for my children's future and the coming generations. In case I don't make it back coz they are shooting out there then it be so for. Freedom does not come on a gold plate.

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written by a guest , December 31, 2007

yeah right.........you are going out to the streets to do battle.
Your a real idiot. I'm sure right now you are just bleeding all over keyboard.

Appeal
written by newafroguy , January 01, 2008

This premature loss of lives is deeply regretable, the violence and wanton destruction of property unnecessary.

But if history is anything to go by, Kibaki must be senile or plain stupid. He and his handlers will realize, albeit too late, that Kenyans are not as simplistic. Right thinking GEMAists must now be wondering whether a forced Kibaki win was indeed in their interest.

For those who think Kibaki won fairly and that ODM is to blame for the aftermath, ask yourselves why he did not, for the sake of Kenya, allow room for a recount. If he was confident of his win why not gain mileage and credibility from a recount.

Senile idiots will pass but Kenya must prevail. I urge all members of the GEMA communities from which the winning vote came to think of themselves as Kenyans first and GEMA second and appeal to their leaders to allow a recount.

In any event, it is the ordinary Kikuyu or Meru etc whose family will face castigation while the super rich Kibakis and Michukis enjoy the spoils.

Finally, please people let us foster healing and dialogue instead of fanning the flames because no two wrongs ever made a right.

re: What next?
written by Kimemia Maina , January 03, 2008

Entire comment quotation edited. Ed.

Can I suggest an open, Independent Commission of Inquiry to investigate all claims from both sides of rigging and irregularities to put a full stop to it instead of empty and ultimately useless street protests

End of peace in Kenya
written by Mzembwe , January 03, 2008

Incitement to violence edited. Ed.

Get real
written by Mzembwe , January 03, 2008

Incitement to violence edited.

Behave or you will be banned. Ed.

Moi is back!!!!
written by Wuod Aketch , January 03, 2008

Conspirationalism and hate speech edited. Ed.

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written by a guest , January 03, 2008

Hate speech erased. Ed.

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written by Anti-Gema , January 03, 2008

Hate speech edited. Ed.