Court issues conservatory orders barring swearing-in of IEBC commissioners

The High Court has issued conservatory orders barring the swearing in of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) commissioners.

Delivering the ruling on Thursday, Justice Lawrence Mugambi stated that, while acknowledging the doctrine of separation of powers, he has allowed Parliament to proceed with the vetting of the seven nominees for the positions of chairperson and commissioners.

However, he said they shall not be sworn in until the petition challenging the nomination process is determined.

Justice Mugambi noted that, due to the significant public interest raised by the petition, it warrants consideration by more than one judge. As such, he has forwarded the file to the Chief Justice for the empanelment of a bench.

Earlier this month, President Ruto nominated Erastus Edung Ethekon as the next IEBC chairperson. He also named Anne Nderitu, Moses Mukwana, Mary Karen Sorobit, Hassan Noor, Francis Odhiambo, and Fahima Abdalla as commissioners.

However, two petitioners moved to court, arguing that the nomination process is illegal and unconstitutional.

More to follow………….