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At least 12 killed in Kenya's chaotic election period, monitor says

DPA WORLD
Published November 03,2017
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At least 12 people, including a minor, were killed in violent clashes in Kenya during the recent election period, the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights said Friday.

Police had previously put the figure at just four, though journalists and rights groups had indicated it was likely higher.

"Between 25th and 27th October 2017, the Commission documented twelve cases of deaths; one minor and eleven males aged between 18 and 45," KNCHR said in a statement.

"The Commission is still investigating cases of more deaths and injuries and these numbers are likely to rise," it added.

The organization expressed concern at police violence, attacks by vigilante groups and remarks by the two main political parties that "deeply polarize and divide the nation especially along ethnic and regional lines."

The crisis in Kenya began after the Supreme Court threw out the results of an August election - won by President Uhuru Kenyatta - over irregularities.

A re-run election was held on October 26, but was boycotted by main opposition leader Raila Odinga who called it a "sham."

Turnout was low and there were running battles between police and protesters, with Kenyatta ultimately winning a 98-per-cent landslide that his opponents have slammed as illegitimate.