A Kenyan voter, Alfred Juma Ayora, became the first petitioner seeking to challenge President-elect William Ruto's victory at the Supreme Court.
Ayora's bid was, however, rejected on Friday, August 19 as the apex court indicated that he did not follow the regulations stipulated by the Presidential Election Petition Rules of 2017.
The Supreme Court argued that the petitioner sent a letter to the Supreme Court and its president, Chief Justice Martha Koome, rather than filing a formal petition as stipulated by the law.
His letter comprised two paragraphs detailing his dissatisfaction with the election process conducted by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC).
In his opinion, the results of the presidential election announced by IEBC chairperson, Wafula Chebukati were not credible since four of the seven commissioners dissented.
"I hope the court will consider this request and ensure my democratic rights are met. I request the court to postpone the swearing-in of the president-elect," read part of the letter.
Ayora was advised to seek an attorney's advice and guidance in filing a formal petition before the timeline expires on Monday, August 22.
Supreme Court, however, acknowledged the letter which was officially received by the Office of the Chief Justice.
Azimio La Umoja presidential candidate, Raila Odinga, is expected to file his petition on the last day after he rejected the results, dubbing them null and void.
"Our view in Azimio is clear, the figures by Wafula Chebukati are null and void and must be quashed by a court of law. In our view, there is neither a legally and validly declared winner nor a president-elect,” he said.
According to Judiciary guidelines, all petitions are to be filed at the Supreme Court sub registry located at Forodha House adjacent to Milimani Law Courts along Upper Hill Close Road.
Also, any party seeking to challenge the presidential outcome should submit their petition before Monday midnight, August 22.
The timeline for filing a court petition is seven days from the date the IEBC declared a presidential winner. The court has 14 days to listen to the case and issue a ruling.
