Elections for new directors in smallholder tea factories under the Kenya Tea Development Authority took place today across various counties. The process, however, was fraught with confusion and a notably low voter turnout.
In Nyamira County, voter participation was significantly low during the morning hours, with many constituents attending SDA church services in Kisii, a common Saturday routine in the region. Tea farmers have called on local IEBC officials to extend voting hours to ensure everyone has the opportunity to vote.
Nyeri County encountered similar difficulties. The turnout was minimal, as many older voters were deterred by Friday’s delays, having waited all day for the elections to commence. Few farmers turned out at most centres, saying that the elections have caused them financial losses due to the two days of missed work. Meanwhile, in Kirinyaga County, the elections proceeded as planned with a good turnout. Voters in Kirinyaga are hopeful that the process will be free and fair, despite earlier uncertainty caused by the postponement.