Myoot Kipsigis Council of Elders disregards reports that Kericho is a hotspot.

The Kipsigis Council of Elders has objected to Kericho being designated as a hotspot county in the upcoming general elections.

The Council, which met in Kericho town and was led by Chairman Rev. Paul Leleito, argued that the communities in the area are peaceful and slammed reports of possible election-related violence.

“NCIC has delivered its report, but as Kericho residents and people, our people are peaceful and will maintain peace. We cannot accept being labeled a hotspot because we are not,” said the Council chair.

The elders were reacting to a report by the National Cohesion and Integration Commission, which named Kericho as a priority area.

Even as elders dismissed the report, NCIC insisted on conducting an extensive survey before releasing it.

According to NCIC, counties at high risk of election-related violence include Uasin Gishu, Nakuru, and Kericho.

Leleito urged local leaders to preach peace throughout their campaigns as the country goes to the polls.

He urged peaceful coexistence among the communities living in neighboring counties.