Kenyan President Mwai Kibaki told security agencies in the country to ensure that the upcoming March general elections are conducted peacefully, Kenya's The Standard reported Tuesday (January 22nd).

Kibaki met with members of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission, Internal Security Minister Katoo Ole Metito, Justice Minister Eugene Wamalwa, Finance Minister Njeru Githae, Head of Public Service Francis Kimemia and Inspector General of Police David Kimaiyo following the closure of party nominations on Monday.

"The security agencies should take steps to ensure that all stages leading to the general election are peaceful," Kibaki said after the meeting, adding that security forces were able to subdue violence during the nomination process. "Our security forces moved fast to quell the incidences of violence, which were isolated and restricted to a handful of counties."

He appealed to political parties to follow the law and avoid escalating tensions after the nominations, and urged local and international media organisations not to create tension in the country.