The Ecumenical Centre for Justice and Peace (ECJP) has unveiled a voter’s manual in Kisumu.
The launch of the manual comes ahead of the commencement of voter sensitization program by the entity.
The entity on Thursday hosted relevant government agencies, as well as voter observer groups to launch the book titled ‘Your Vote, Your Responsibility’.
ECJP Executive Director Ruth Angwa said the book responds to the basic needs of the voters, such as their responsibility, how to vote, and importance of voting.
This is a very unique election, as the President and a number of Governors are exiting the stage
Ruth Angwa
“The book comes at the right time, as people are preparing to vote, with so many aspirants and parties taking part in the polls,” said Angawa.
She said the publishing of the book was informed by the nature of the upcoming election.
“This is a very unique election, as the President and a number of Governors are exiting the stage,” she said.
She added: “Citizens must therefore be acquainted with the processes, and what to look for in the formation of the next government.”
Civic education
Angawa said the entity will have civic educators who will hold public meetings and media programs in a bid to enlighten the public in line with the content of the book.
ECJP is a faith based organization involved in civic education, conflict management and peace building.
The production of the book, and subsequent voter education programs have been financed by Hanns Seidel Foundation, a Germany based organization supporting democracy globally.
One of the core values of democracy are elections, and we are supporting civic education which promotes democratic processes
Daniel Seiberling
The Foundation’s Country Representative Daniel Seiberling said the book will be used nationally as a way of supporting initiatives which strengthen people’s participation in governance.
“One of the core values of democracy are elections, and we are supporting civic education which promotes democratic processes,” said Daniel.
Cardinal Elias Komenya, ECJP Kisumu County Coordinator there is need for voters to understand the impact of election.
“The government belongs to the people, and through election, people surrender their sovereignty power to elected leaders, hence they must know what it is in election,” he said.
Bad choices
Kisumu Deputy Governor Dr Mathews Owili who presided over the launch of the book reiterated the importance of voter education.
Owili said a number of voters have been victims of misleading by politicians who have bad intentions in leadership.
“There are people who vote others into leadership in exchange for few coins. The people must be made aware that such decisions have long term severe impacts,” he said.
Ecumenical Centre for Peace and Justice is (ECJP) was established to contribute to good governance and the democratization process, promotion and protection of human rights, peace building and sustainable socio-economic justice in Kenya through advocacy, civic education, oversight and accountability
