The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) chair, Wafula Chebukati, is contemplating postponing elections in certain areas where candidates are facing lawsuits.
Speaking on Saturday, July 9, Chebukati explained that the commission was worried due to the pending cases in court and the failure of the Judiciary to give direction.
Chebukati warned that 31 areas within Nairobi, Mombasa, Kiambu and other counties may be affected by his decision.
He urged Chief Justice Martha Koome to expedite the determination of the cases to avoid a delay in the ballot printing process.
"If for any reason they (court cases) are not finalized in good time, as a commission we cannot wait forever, we shall be forced to suspend elections in those areas where decisions affect the printing of ballot papers. We must deliver elections on August 9," he stated.
Speaking on election handling and preparedness, Chebukati stated that the results at polling stations will not be countered by the commission which will only declare the winner.
"Results at polling stations are final. The commission will only declare the winner but the results are not the preserve of the commission," he reiterated.
"The media will have access to results both at the tally centres & at the polling stations," Chebukati added.
On Monday, July 4, IEBC commissioner Francis Wanderi had given a similar directive arguing that the pending appeal by former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko would not hold off the printing of the ballot paper by the Greek firm, Inform Lykos.
Sonko is seeking clearance to contest in the Mombasa gubernatorial race after Chebukati barred him, citing his impeachment.
Wanderi noted that they would proceed with their preparations accordingly.
IEBC further announced that a backup firm located in Romania may act should the Greek firm encounter unforeseen challenges.
It, however, detailed that Inform Lykos has sufficient contingency plans to deliver on its contractual obligations.
