By Sandra Birungi

Vote counting has already begun in Kenya after the elections yesterday.

There was a huge turn out of voters throughout the whole country and polling stations ended up staying open even beyond the official time. According to the Independent Boundaries and Electoral Commission (IBEC), the number of people who turned up to vote went well above 70%. “All indications are for over 70% turnout,” Ahmed Issack Hassan said.

Despite there being eight candidates vying for the presidency, it is outgoing prime minister, Raila Odinga and deputy prime minister, Uhutu Kenyatta who are competing stiffly. Yesterday, Kenyatta was leading the polls with 54% while Odinga remains at 40%.

Peace was registered throughout the whole country although earlier on in the day, there was violence in Mombasa which saw the death of 19 people, six of whom were police officers. The attack was placed on the Mombasa Republican Council (MRC) which is a secessionist group on Kenya’s coast. The MRC however denied responsibility.

Tensions continue to increase on who is going to win the Kenya presidential elections 2013. It brings to mind the 2007 election violence and the whole world is at the moment watching Kenya to see if losers will be able to accept defeat and not embark on violence after losing. Out going president, Mwai Kibaki has called onto the people to remain peaceful even after elections. Presidential hopefuls promised to maintain peace, even after losing.

Official results are expected in approximately 20 hours.