Relief for Laikipia Governor as application for voter scrutiny dismissed

The High Court in Nanyuki on Wednesday dismissed an application in a petition challenging the election of Laikipia Governor Ndiritu Muriithi saying it lacked merit.

Sammy Ndung’u, the sole petitioner in the case, had on November 27 filed a motion with prayers for the voting exercise in Sosian ward during the August 8 General Elections be scrutinised.

The petitioner had claimed that voting in the said area of Laikipia North constituency had not taken place, alleging that the Pokot community did not participate in the electoral process as they were involved in a security exercise that was being conducted in the area.

Lady Justice Mary Kasango, in delivering her judgement said the application had held back the conclusion of the petition, saying it did not contribute to the judicial process.

“I find the filing of this motion unmerited and it is therefore dismissed,” ruled Justice Kasango.

Governor Muriithi and his deputy, John Mwaniki, welcomed the court’s verdict.

“We are very pleased by the judgement of the court that the attempt to ask for scrutiny of Sosian ward was without merit,” said Governor Muriithi, with his deputy adding, “We will not be deterred or distracted by such cases.”

During the August 8 General Election, Governor Muriithi and his running mate, Mwaniki clinched the Laikipia gubernatorial seat on an Independent ticket, fending off the challenge of among others the immediate former Governor, Joshua Irungu.

Two voters, Ndung’u and Dennis Leman, filed a petition challenging the election, with former Governor Irungu seeking to be enjoined as an interesting party.

However, Mr. Leman withdrew leaving only one petitioner, with the court also barring the former Governor from joining the case.