Senators yesterday started a two-week recess, with amplified calls for political parties to conduct free, fair, and credible nominations.

The United Democratic Alliance (UDA), Jubilee Party, Democratic Action Party (DAP-K), Wiper, and Amani National Congress (ANC) are scheduled to start party primaries this week.

Already, the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) has issued a list of words and phrases that are likely to incite hatred. Senators have asked government agencies entrusted with the promotion of peace to curb incidents of hate speech.

Legislators, NCIC has an important oversight duty, especially during elections when politicians throw caution to the wind.

So far, there have been heated exchanges between rival groups that could spell doom if not nipped in the bud, they claim.

Deal with violence  cases

“Incidences of violence must be dealt with. We want the perpetrators to be dealt with,” said nominated Senator Sylvia Kasanga (right), adding that State agencies should deal firmly with anyone disturbing the peace. She asked the youth not to be used by politicians as agents of doom. Her views were echoed by Narok Senator Ledama ole Kina, who said politicians must lead by example.

“Do not put all your efforts into a re-election campaign. Kenyans are finding it difficult to put food on the table; let’s spare them bickering and name-calling,” said Ole Kina.

Nominated Senator Naomi Shiyonga termed the recess “a tense period” because they (Senators) will battle it out for party nominations, while Majority Leader Samuel Poghisio said the break is good for rest and rejuvenation before a round of debate on pending Bills.