Mombasa, Kenya- Security agencies have been placed on standby to enforce campaign regulations ahead of the Dock Workers Union (DWU) elections, with candidates who flout the rules facing arrest and possible prosecution.
DWU Election Board Chairperson Renson Thoya said the board has adopted strict enforcement measures to safeguard the integrity of the elections, warning that no candidate will be spared for violating the agreed campaign code.
He said the Election Board is committed to delivering a peaceful, transparent and credible electoral process for the union’s more than 5,000 registered members.
“We are determined to ensure the entire election process is free, fair and transparent until the final results are announced,” Thoya said.
Speaking during an interview on a local Mombasa FM radio station, Thoya noted that campaigns will officially end on August 11 in accordance with the election timetable, urging all candidates to observe the deadline.
To enhance transparency, he announced that the voters’ register will be displayed at all 13 designated polling stations seven days before the election to allow members to verify their registration details.
Thoya cautioned that only members who meet the eligibility requirements set out in the union’s constitution and relevant labour laws will be allowed to cast their ballots.
He said nine polling stations have been established within the Port of Mombasa, while the remaining four will serve members at the Port of Lamu, the Inland Container Depot (ICD) in Nairobi, the Kisumu Depot and the Inland Container Depot in Naivasha, Nakuru County.
The Election Board, he added, will remain impartial throughout the exercise to ensure the outcome reflects the will of the union members.
Thoya also warned that candidates who breach the election code of conduct, which was signed by all contestants, risk immediate disqualification in addition to criminal prosecution.
He said the board is closely monitoring campaign activities across all stations to ensure full compliance with the election rules ahead of the August 13 vote.
