Chebukati urges IEBC staff adversely mentioned to step aside, rules out resignation

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IEBC Chair Wafula Chebukati.

Nairobi,KENYA: IEBC chair Wafula Chebukati  has called upon the commission officials who were implicated in the annulled August 8th presidential elections to step aside, so as to pave way for free and fair presidential repeat polls.

While addressing journalists at the Bomas of Kenya, Chebukati ruled out resignation saying he will try his best to ensure free and fair elections are held.

“Resignation would be the easiest thing but I am determined to make this work, I have made several steps to make  changes at the IEBC but all my attempts have been have been opposed by a majority vote at the commission. I  therefore call on the staff who have been adversely mentioned to step aside to allow the project team to work” Chebukati told reporters.

He further said that he could not guarantee Kenyans a free and fair elections if key changes are not made among the secretariat staff.

““It is already painful to be on record as a Chairman of the IEBC that presided over a presidential election that wasnullified by the Supreme Court. I have made several attempts to make critical changes to the Commission but all mymotions have been defeated by a majority of the commissioners. Under such conditions, it is difficult to guarantee free, fair and credible elections.Without critical changes in key secretariat staff, free, fair and credible elections will surely be compromised.” Said Chebukati.

Chebukati also said that his efficiency was being hindered by selfish interest of politicians as he called on a meeting with all the presidential candidates.

““I appeal to the leaders and supporters of the main parties, Jubilee and NASA, to come together and dialogue so that we help restore the dignity, genuine independence and respect for our institutions.As such as as the referee of this contest, am extending an open invitation to the candidates to a meeting that I will preside over so that they can talk.”Chebukati said.

This comes as Commisioner Roselyn Akombe handed announced that she has resigned on reasons that IEBC had become partisan.

READ MORE: Roselyn Akombe resigns from IEBC

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