Alleged Raid on NASA Tallying Center Raises Questions About Media Integrity and Political Desperation

 There has been much speculation surrounding reports of a raid on NASA’s tallying center in Westlands. Initial reports from the Nation stated there was no raid, citing interviews with security guards who saw no signs of such an incident. The Kenya Police also denied any raid took place. For many, the matter seemed closed.

However, KTN later reported clear evidence of a raid, including disconnected wires, stolen phones, and disabled equipment. Their footage showed the aftermath of the incident, revealing the chaos caused by over 30 hooded, heavily armed individuals who stormed the center on the evening of Friday, August 4, 2017. Witnesses, including young university students present at the center, described being ordered to lie down at gunpoint. Computers and other equipment were taken in what appeared to be a calculated operation to disable NASA's tallying center.

This incident raises serious concerns about the state of Kenya’s media. Many citizens trust outlets like the Nation for credible news, yet conflicting reports about this incident suggest possible manipulation. Such discrepancies highlight the need for caution when consuming media, especially during politically charged times.

The raid also sheds light on growing political tensions. In 2013, Jubilee maintained a tallying center using the same servers as the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC). By contrast, NASA’s independent tallying centers in 2017 have sparked significant concern from Jubilee. Why would Jubilee feel threatened by a legal, independent tallying center? Could it be that these centers interfere with plans to manipulate election results?

Jubilee’s actions suggest an unsettling trend of desperation. If opinion polls and widespread support in strongholds like Rift Valley and Central Kenya indicate their assured victory, why resort to such tactics? Desperation undermines the very credibility of these claims and raises questions about the true state of the political landscape.

Moreover, reports of armed raids, coupled with police denials, paint a worrying picture. Was this the work of Jubilee-aligned operatives posing as law enforcement, or something else? These actions jeopardize the principles of fairness and transparency that are vital for a stable democracy.

As the elections approach, it is crucial for all parties to act responsibly. Kenya will still exist after the elections, and political differences must not erode national unity. Actions speak louder than words, and those calling for peace must avoid engaging in acts that provoke division and distrust.