IEBC says CORD cannot evict its commissioners from office

The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) now says that the Coalition for Reforms and Democracy (CORD) cannot forcefully eject commissioners from office as the process of their removal is entrenched in the Constitution of Kenya 2010.

In a statement to newsrooms hours after police used teargas to disperse CORD supporters led by co-principals Raila Odinga, Kalonzo Musyoka and Moses Wetangula, IEBC says the move by the opposition coalition to try to use force to access its (IEBC’s) offices was regrettable and “utterly unnecessary”.

The poll body also pointed out that the recent action by CORD was triggered by its recent verdict on the Okoa Kenya referendum drive where it (IEBC) announced that the opposition failed to reach the one-million signatures of registered voters.

“CORD has disputed the commission’ verdict on its Okoa Kenya referendum initiative and raised concerns with the conduct and management of the last elections. These are matters that are all governed by law, which the commission has pronounced itself on,” read the statement in part.

IEBC added: “The Coalition has also queried the suitability of the current Commissioners to preside over the next General Elections and demanded that it be reconstituted. The mode of appointment and removal of IEBC Commissioners, like any other constitutional commission, is well within the knowledge of the CORD coalition.”

IEBC said that it will not be intimidated by the opposition and will continue being “governed by the Constitution and the IEBC Act establishing it” adding that it is ready to engage with “all stakeholders and the public within the framework of the law and invites all parties to comply to ensure that the 2017 elections are peaceful, free and fair.”

“We are ready to update on the progress we have made towards 2017 polls and to listen to and address any concerns with all political players. CORD is one of our clients. They should make it possible to engage fruitfully and harmoniously.”