Kibaki reassures Kenya of fair elections in 2012

President Mwai Kibaki has reassured Kenyans of a free and fair elections in 2012 in his New Year's address to the country.

Kibaki who has served two terms in office said he will support a peaceful transition of leadership next year.

"After two terms as your President, I will be happy to oversee a smooth transition to the new leadership that you the people, will vote into office," he said. "I thank you the Kenyan people for the support you have extended to me during my time in office. I wish to assure you all that we will put in place all the necessary measures to ensure a free and fair general election."

Kibaki also said that the youths will be issued with national identity cards to enable them register as voters.

"In this regard the government will facilitate the issuance of national identity cards to youth of age, to enable them register as voters as the process kicks off in the coming weeks," he said.

Devolved government

President Kibaki noted that the State will begin a transition from a centralised to a devolved government.

He said measures will be put in place to ensure new opportunities evolving from the devolved government are benefits counties.

"We will put in place measures to ensure that all counties are adequately prepared to embrace the new opportunities and overcome the likely challenges," Kibaki said.

The President also noted that social programmes in the fields of education and health are empowering our people. He said the youth are enjoying free education programs, giving them a better chance at succeeding in the future.

"The resources we are investing in the health sector are ensuring that our people are healthier and more productive," Kibaki said in his speech to the nation.

Kibaki was also optimistic that Kenya will experience a reduced inflationary pressure due to anticipated reductions in energy prices and increased food production.