The Supreme Court on Tuesday, August 30, directed the acting Inspector General of Police, Noor Gabow to provide adequate security during the recounting of ballots in 14 polling stations.
Deputy Chief Justice Philomena Mwilu noted that law enforcement agencies should be deployed during the recounting period to ensure a fair process.
"We direct the Inspector General of Police in liaison with the Registrar of this Court to provide adequate security during the exercise of scrutiny," Mwilu directed.
This is the first order issued to Noor Gabow after IG Hilary Mutyambai proceeded on leave for a medical checkup. At the time, the IG did not reveal his ailment but affirmed that he was advised to go for a medical checkup.
The Supreme Court had ordered that ballot boxes for 14 polling stations be opened for inspection and recount for the next 48 hours.
The apex court also declined further lodgment of pleadings as well as struck out the application filed by Issa and Company Advocates and Paule Muite that sought to represent the four dissenting IEBC commissioners.
"We direct that all pleadings that were filed out of time including those filed by 2.00 pm today, are hereby deemed to have been filed in time."
"With effect from today 2.00 pm, the court will not entertain further lodgment of pleadings. However, counsel is granted leave to respond to the two affidavits that were presented with a way of oral submission at the hearing," Mwilu stated.
The SCOK had also directed the IEBC to deliver to the Court and parties all ballot boxes for inspection, scrutiny and recount in the 14 polling stations.
The pollings stations comprise Belgut, Kapsuser and Chepkutum Primary Schools in Kericho County; Jomvi, Mikindani, Ministry of Water Tanks Polling Stations in Mombasa County, Nandi Hills and Sinendeti Primary School in Nandi county.
Others include Mvita, Majengo and Mvita Primary Schools in Mombasa County; Tinderet CONMO, in Nandi County; Jarok, Gathanji and Kiheo Primary School Polling in Nyandarua County.
"That the IEBC does deliver all ballot boxes in Bomet, Nandi, Kiambu, Kericho, Kirinyaga and Nyeri counties for inspection, scrutiny, recount and such terms as it deems fit," Chief Justice Martha Koome stated.
During the pre-trial conference, the Supreme Court consolidated seven petitions challenging president-elect, William Ruto's win. The apex court is scheduled to give the final ruling on Monday, September 5.
