Economy

We have a right to appeal, says IEBC

chebu

Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) chairman Wafula Chebukati. FILE PHOTO | NMG

The electoral agency Monday defended its appeal against a ruling requiring the presidential election results at the constituency be deemed final, even as it warned against what it said were threats to its independence.

The opposition National Super Alliance led by Raila Odinga on Sunday threatened to boycott the August 8 elections if the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) does not withdraw the appeal they said was a plot to introduce rigging.

But IEBC chairman Wafula Chebukati, in a statement Monday, said that the commission was only seeking clarifications on the High Court ruling that took powers from him as the presidential elections returning officer.

As the returning officer, the IEBC argues, Mr Chebukati should have the power to tally and announce its results.

“IEBC, just like any other Kenyan, has the right to seek the protection of the Judiciary and the courts,” Mr Chebukati said in a statement.