Supreme Court suspends nullification of Wajir Governor’s election

The Supreme Court has temporarily suspended the Court of Appeal decision that upheld the nullification of Mohamed Abdi Mahamad’s election as Wajir Governor.

Led by Chief Justice David Maraga the apex court judges ruled that Mr. Abdi remain in office until a case filed by the governor is heard and determined.

The Supreme Court made the decision to prevent an eventuality where the office of the Wajir Governor would fall vacant due to delay in the hearing of the case.

“It is averred that the Governor’s office is destined to fall vacant and to be occupied by the holder of the Office of the Speaker, on account of delay in hearing the applicants case on the merits disposing of it,” ruled the judges.

“Accordingly, we hereby make this order staying any and all actions bearing on the occupancy of the Governor’s office. The status quo shall not be disturbed pending the hearing and determination of the matter pending before the Supreme Court.”

Mr. Abdi’s election was first voided on January 12 after High Court judge Justice Alfred Mabeya found that the Governor’s academic papers were not proper and the poll was not conducted according to the law.

The governor then sought intervention from the Court of Appeal which upheld his ouster on April 20.

Disappointed by the appellate court ruling, Mr. Abdi moved to the Supreme Court where he hopes to salvage his political career.