The High Court in Kitale has upheld the election of Trans Nzoia County Governor Patrick Khaemba, at the same time slapping the two petitioners a fine of Kshs 10 million. Justice Anthony Murima said the petitioners lacked substantial evidence to prove their, adding that the proof provided wasn’t substantial to warrant nullification of Khaemba’s election.
The petitioners, Robinson Mwanga and Alfred Chole were seeking the nullification of the Governor’s victory on various grounds among them, alleged claims that agents of other gubernatorial candidates were chased from some polling station and Khaemba’s agents were in involved in voter bribery. They’ve said they are consulting with their lawyers, even though they respect the Court’s verdict.
The High Court concluded that the reports from vote scrutiny and recount that had been ordered failed to reveal any substantial irregularities and that the threshold for nullification of the result wasn’t reflected. The Judge delivering the verdict raised the issue of inadequate training for IEBC officials and agents of political parties.
Opposition leaders led by NASA co-principal Moses Wetangula, MPs Dr. Chris Wamalwa and Ferdinand Wanyonyi were present during the ruling. Others were Kimilili MP Didmus Barasa and Mwambu Mabonga of Bumula. Several leaders led by the leader of the minority in Trans Nzoia County Assembly Emmanuel Waswa have praised the Court’s ruling and called on disgruntled leaders to work together to strengthen the County’s economic stature.