President Ruto full of praise for IEBC and Chebukati
While culminating a colorful inauguration at the Moi Sports Center Kasarani, President William Ruto applauded the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission, IEBC, saying they have set the standard.
President Ruto admitted that Kenyan elections are always an emotive, engaging and dramatic affair but was quick to point out that the August 9 polls were the most exemplary installment of Kenyan elections.
“The just concluded election was a choice between competing ideas towards Kenya we want. Elections and democracy entail unifying competition, not divisive rivalry,” said President Ruto.
The August 9 polls were contested by Azimio La Umoja One Kenya Coalition led by Raila Odinga and Martha Karua who petitioned the Supreme Court. They filed nine grounds on which they sought to nullify the elections, but the court found that IEBC conducted a free and fair election.
Before the announcement of the results at Bomas of Kenya on August 15, a section of IEBC commissioners led by Deputy Chairperson Juliana Cherera disputed the results terming the tallying and verification as opaque. The walkout was not the only incident, at Bomas, IEBC Chairperson Wafula Chebukati, and commissioners Professor Abdi Guliye and Boya Molu were physically attacked.
All this did not escape the vigilant eye of the president who lauded the courage of the commission despite the numerous allegations of coercion and intimidation.
He said, “Allow me ladies and gentlemen to single out the IEBC for special commendation for the courage to do the right thing under exceptionally challenging circumstances. They have set a new standard in public service that is uncompromising, professional, and exemplary while raising the bar of the integrity of public officials and public institutions.”
Ruto commended the IEBC chairperson, Wafula Chebukati for standing firm, resisting bribery, intimidation, and blackmail.
He went on to say the IEBC initiated a pioneering breakthrough through electronic transmission of results. He said, “We will support IEBC institutional capacity to cover all elections from those of Members of County Assemblies to those of the President.
He also took the opportunity to congratulate the rising number of women leaders. He complimented Kenyans for voting for seven women governors up from three and 29 MPs and seven women deputy governors and senators.