Obama calls for peaceful and credible elections in Kenya as polls open Tuesday

Former US president Barack Obama has called for peaceful and credible elections as Kenyans head to the most contested elections in the country’s history Tuesday.

The former President also asked Kenyan politicians to reject violence and incitement adding the ultimate responsibility lay in the hands of Kenyans ‘who know more than any the needless pain and agony thousand suffered as a result of the crisis in 2007′.

“I urge Kenyan leaders to reject violence and incitement; respect the will of the people; urge security forces to act professionally and neutrally; and work together no matter the outcome,” Obama said in a statement posted on Twitter.

His remarks come as polls open in a few hours in over 45,000 polling stations countrywide estimated to cost $5 billion; the most expensive electoral exercise in Africa. Former US Secretary of State John Kerry is leading the US elections observer team.

President Uhuru who is vying under the Jubilee party will be facing off with his erstwhile political rival and NASA presidential candidate Raila Odinga. Kenyans will also be voting for others five seats namely governor, MP, Senate, Member of County Assembly and Women Representative.

Obama whose father was a Kenyans added Kenyans ‘must embrace the extraordinary potential of an inclusive democracy. As Kenyans vote in your election, that choice is once again in your hands.”