NAIROBI, Kenya, Dec 2 – A commissioner at the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) Justus Nya’ngaya has resigned ahead of the tribunal hearing into his conduct.
In a letter addressed to President William Ruto, Nya’ngaya expressed gratitude that he had been given an opportunity to serve Kenyans in his capacity as a commissioner.
“In the last few weeks, I have had serious soul searching and being a man of faith, prayed fervently so that I may have the wisdom to make a decision that is in the best interest of the country,” he stated.
His sentiments follow the gazettement of the nine-member tribunal to probe the conduct of the Cherera-four commissioners at the electoral body.
The nine member team tribunal which will be chaired by High Court Judge Aggrey Muchelule after investigations will recommend their removal by the Head of State.
Other enlisted to be part of the tribunal include; Carolyne Kamende Daudi,Linda Gakii Kiome,Mathew Njaramba Nyabena,Col. (Rtd.) Saeed Khamis Saeed,Kibet Kirui Emmanuel and Irene Tunta Nchoe.
The lead counsel of the tribunal is Peter Munge Murage who will be assisted by Zamzam Abdi Abib.
The tribunal is required to expeditiously conclude the hearing and report of its findings which are binding with the President expected to act on them within 30 days.
“In the discharge of its functions, the Tribunal shall—(a) Prepare and submit a report and its recommendations thereon expeditiously; and (b) Exercise all the powers conferred upon it by law for the proper execution of its mandate,” read the gazette notice.
The tribunal is expected to consider four petitions filed against Juliana Cherera,Francis Wanderi, Justus Nyangaya and Irene Masit and establish whether there were serious violations of the constitution and gross misconduct they had committed.
Consequently, the four commissioners have been suspended pending their completion of the allegation against them.
“Being members of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission, be and are hereby suspended from office with immediate effect; and a Tribunal to inquire into the matter be and is hereby appointed,” stated the gazette notice.
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