Nairobi, KENYA: Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission has termed a move by ODM party to embark on its party primaries on Friday this week as going against the law.
In a media briefing in Nairobi on Wednesday IEBC Chair Wafula Chebukati and his CEO Ezra Chiloba said that by doing so, the party will go against the commission’s calendar which is scheduled as from 12th April.
“The commission will gazette the names received within seven days from today. All political parties will have 14 days thereafter to prepare and conduct party primaries not later than 26th April 2017.”Chebukati said
“Political parties should be reminded that no party primaries shall take place until the commission gazettes the list of aspirants.” He added.
Chebukati said that so far the commission has received submissions of 57 parties out of 67 parties .
He said that the commission has commenced audit of register despite a case pending in court sponsored by activist Okiyo Omtatah challenging suitability of KPMG in conducting the audit process.
The audit is expected to last for 21 days.
He added that the commission notes with concern about the increasing reports of violence in various parts of the country.
He warned political candidates and parties to desist from indulging in any form of violence, saying that those who will be culpable will be slapped with huge fines, warnings and cancellation to participate in general elections.
