IEBC’s bold move to curb use of state resources by those seeking for political offices
The electoral body, the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has mooted a new raft of measures to tame use of public resources by those seeking elective offices.
In a new directive, IEBC has demanded to be furnished with an inventory of public assets being held by Members of Parliament, senators, governors and state officers seeking political office.
In a statement, the commission has given all the concerned parties14 days from Friday to furnish it with the required information.
It warns that those found breaking the law will be barred from contesting in the August polls.
Citing the Election Offences Act, 2016, the commission says any candidate or other person shall not use public resources for the purpose of campaigning during an election or a referendum.
Those found culpable are liable to a fine not exceeding Ksh2million or imprisonment for a term not exceeding six years or both.
The aspirants should submit the information to 6th floor of anniversary towers in Nairobi county before the close of two weeks from May 27th 2022.
IEBC further said any authorized member of the commission will have the power to impound or to order the impounding of any state resources that are unlawfully used in an election campaign.
A sitting president and other elected leaders don’t have to resign if they wish to contest for a position in a general election.
High Court Judge Anthony Mrima last year ruled that the law does not require the president, governors, MPs and MCAs to be out of the office until the second Tuesday of August every fifth year.
According to the judge, a new electoral cycle begins at a general election and ends on the second Tuesday of August every fifth year.
