Former DP Sounds Alarm on Electoral Crisis
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has called on the international community to pressure the Kenyan government into reconstituting the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC). Speaking during a church service in Dandora, Nairobi, on January 12, Gachagua highlighted the urgency of the matter.
“The country remains without an electoral body, contrary to the Kriegler report, as the clock ticks towards 2027,” he said. Gachagua emphasized the importance of reconstituting the IEBC three years before a general election, as recommended by the report.
Blame Game Over Delays
Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura attributed the delay to a court injunction blocking the formation of the IEBC selection panel. He urged stakeholders to resolve the matter without involving the courts.
“The Wiper Party should consult its members and nominate a candidate to the selection committee,” Mwaura advised. “Let’s resolve this and move forward.”
Gachagua, however, linked the delay to some politicians advocating for an extension of the presidential term limit.
Appeal to World Leaders
Gachagua called on U.S. President Donald Trump to mobilize world leaders to exert pressure on President William Ruto. “We need a functional IEBC to start preparing for the 2027 General Election,” he said.
Criticism of Ruto’s Leadership
During his address, Gachagua criticized President Ruto for overlooking the behavior of his allies. He accused some insiders of using abusive language during public rallies.
“Your friends are the ones making children adopt abusive behavior, and you’re not stopping them,” he said. Gachagua added, “Before you remove the speck in our eye, remove the log in yours.”
The former DP also acknowledged parents’ responsibility to instill good morals but urged Ruto to lead by example.
Legal Action Underway
Gachagua revealed that his team of lawyers is documenting the country’s current political issues. This step aims to hold leaders accountable and address governance concerns.
Lingering Concerns
As Kenya moves closer to the next election cycle, concerns over the IEBC’s reconstitution continue to grow. Gachagua’s appeal to international leaders highlights the significance of credible electoral preparations.
This situation calls for urgent action to ensure a functional commission capable of delivering a transparent election process.
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IEBC reconstitution: Gachagua asks international community to intervene
