The Independent Electoral Board Commission (IEBC) has released a calendar for the forthcoming by-elections across the country.
Nakuru County Governor Lee Kinyanjui said that the date provided for presentation of names of candidates who will participate in party primaries is December 21, 2020.
“Given that the notice was given on 15th December, parties are expected to present names and the date to hold primaries in five days.” he stated.
According to Kinyanjui,the timing are found to be mischievous and an affront to the right of citizens to express free will on candidates of their choice.
“We consider this to be an ambush on democracy.” he said.
He noted that they have written a protest letter to the IEBC seeking a review of the dates provided.
“As we have seen in previous experiences, the process is as good as the outcome. In connection to the above, we have written a protest letter to the IEBC seeking a review of the dates provided.”
He stated that Nakuru by-elections in London and Hellsgate shall endeavour to have a free and fair nominations and subsequent elections.
“We will defend that position at all cost,” he concluded.
The London and Hell’s Gate county assembly ward seats in Nakuru County fell vacant following the death of MCA Samuel Mbugua and MCA John Njuguna respectively who succumbed to COVID-19.
Along with the Nakuru County assembly ward by-election, IEBC will also hold polls for Huruma, Kiamokama and Kitise/Kithuki wards.
Huruma ward county assembly seat in Uasin Gishu County fell vacant after MCA Peter Chomba passed on following breathing complications.
Kiamokama ward seat in Kisii County fell vacant after MCA Ken Mainya passed on while being ferried to Nairobi for treatment. He had tested positive for the Covid-19 disease.
Kitise/Kithuki ward seat fell vacant after MCA Kevin Mutuku resigned to take up new duties as the County clerk.
Msambweni parliamentary by-election was held on December 15 where the Independent candidate Fiesal Badder won the seat.
