Confusion as Kirinyaga governor ballot papers found in Kakamega

There was confusion in Mumias, Kakamega County, on Monday, August 8, after the ballot papers for Kirinyaga gubernatorial contest were found in the constituency.

Confirming the incident, area returning officer Joseph Ayatta blamed the issue on a mix-up in the distribution of the ballot papers ahead of Tuesday’s general election.

“It is true that the ballot paper was found. We will issue a comprehensive statement later,” Ayatta told a local daily.

Ballot papers missing in Mombasa

A similar incident was reported in Mombasa where ballot papers for the gubernatorial contest were missing.

The county had instead received ballot papers for Kilifi County.

Mvita Constituency’s Returning Officer Masha Sudi said the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) is working to correct the mishap.

“We have received ballot papers for Kilifi. However, that’s a challenge that’s within our reach and we will solve it soon,” Sudi said.

The officer called on the residents to remain calm as the electoral body works around the clock to ensure the ballot papers for the governor post are delivered to the county in good time ahead of the polls.

“I’m appealing to Mombasa residents to remain calm and rest assured that tomorrow morning they will vote for their preferred governor candidate,” he said.

Kenyans will go to the polls on Tuesday to elect new leaders in various positions including the President, Governor, Senator, MP, Woman Representative and Member of County Assembly (MCA).

A majority of counties have received election materials for the respective positions ahead of the polls.