Our ballot papers are peculiar, UDA speaks on rigging claims

By Joshua Cheloti The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) has dismissed reports that its ongoing nominations have been rigged. There have been claims of pre-marked ballot papers found in several parts of the country where UDA is conducting its nominations, reports the party describes as fake. In a media briefing at the party’s headquarters in Nairobi, UDA National Elections Board chairperson Anthony Mwaura said there is no way an individual can counterfeit their ballot papers. Mwaura however said they have launched a probe into the claims. According to Mwaura, ballot papers being used in the UDA nominations have unique features that could not be replicated or mass-produced anywhere. "Our ballot papers are peculiar, they have got watermarks, serial numbers, and are serialized and nobody can give any evidence that they can be found anywhere. They cannot even be photocopied," said the NEB chairman. Concerning delays that have been witnessed in several parts of the country, Mwaura admitted that they had been faced with logistical challenges that have occasioned the delays. https://twitter.com/i/status/1514545561168494595 There were also reports of a shortage of ballot papers in Kisii cunty, which has since been addressed. Ballot materials that had been burnt in Bomet and Embu counties following rigging claims among some aspirants have also been replaced. "In Bomet where we had a peculiar incidence where materials for four polling stations were destroyed, we have been able to mop up and the voting is going on in the 582 centres," Mwaura said. "The aspirants who have caused that commotion have been summoned. We have emphasized that we do not condone violence and it has its own repercussions. In UDA, violence leads to automatic disqualification and expulsion from our part," he added. UDA is conducting nominations in at least 36 counties, wherein 13, will be picking gubernatorial candidates. At least 5,000 aspirants are battling for the UDA tickets in various elective positions across the country.