Kenyans are voting in an election that observer groups describe as the most important history in the country’s democratic credentials.

It is the first time a vote has taken place under a new constitution, designed to prevent a repeat of violence that followed the 2007 polls which resulted in chaos in the country.

More than 1,000 people died when supporters of rival candidate’s group between President Mwai Kibaki and Prime Minister Raila Odinga clashed over a contested result in 2007.

Raila Odinga claimed then that he was cheated by President Mwai Kibaki resulting in that unfortunate incident.

Despite appeals for calm, reports say at least two police officers died in clashes near Mombasa early today which might raise red flags as to how events might turn during the counting process.

Kenyans will choose a president, members of parliament and senators, county governors and members of the newly-formed county assembly.

Eight candidates are standing for the high office (presidency) but it is essentially a two-horse race between Prime Minister Raila Odinga and his Deputy Prime Minister Uhuru Kenyatta, many analysts believe.

Uhuru Kenyatta, son of Kenya’s founding father Jomo Kenyatta, is due to stand trial at the International Criminal Court for his alleged role in orchestrating the violence five years ago.

Prior to the elections, some group of people challenged his eligibility to stand in the elections but the country’s Supreme Court ruled that he is eligible to run for the presidency.

Local reports say that they were long queues at the various polling stations across the country when polls opened around 06:00 local time which might probably suggest that there will be high voters turn out.

President Mwai Kibaki who is not seeking re-election urged Kenyans to vote peacefully and for the losers to accept defeat in good faith to protect the peace of the country.

“Cast your vote and keep the peace,” he said in a televised address to the nation on Friday on national television.

“Let us send a clear message to the world that our democracy has come of age. A peaceful vote is a vote for a secure, prosperous and stable Kenya.”

Candidates have also promised to respect the result and urged their supporters to refrain from violence that is likely to disrupt the elections process and further ruin the country.

Issaka Adams / NationalTurk Africa News

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