The Independent and Electoral Boundaries Commission (IEBC) Chairman, Wafula Chebukati has called for the immediate replacement of four commissioners who recently resigned from the commission to enable it to carry out its duties effectively.
Chebukati said the commission was unable to hold plenary meetings since it lacks a quorum but has been continuing with other administrative duties.
“The main activity affected is holding plenary meetings but all other administrative activities are going on well, I want to appeal to the appointing authority to replace the commissioners quickly so that we can carry on with our duties effectively “he said.
Addressing the press in Kajiado on Thursday after touring the IEBC offices at the town, Chebukati, who was accompanied by Commissioners, Prof. Abdi Guliye and Mboya Molu said the law was very clear on replacement of commissioners.
“The IEBC act clearly states what happens when there is a vacancy in office, it provides a mechanism for filling the vacancies. The law is there and it is just up to the appointing authority to advertise the positions and let competent Kenyans apply. This notion that there is no law is misleading, the law is clear” Chebukati said.
The electoral chair ruled out the possibility of resigning, saying that resignation was an individual’s choice.
He further stated that his team was well prepared in case of a referendum.
“Referendum is a process that takes six months, 1 year or more for referendum questions to be framed. As we speak we have not received any documents from any parties that want a referendum. I believe by that time it happens we will be properly constituted, however our offices are operational, and the team that ran the elections are here we have no problem if a referendum comes” said the chair.
The electoral boss and his commissioners are on a tour of all the 47 IEBC County offices and have toured 16 counties so far.
By Rop Janet
