IEBC Requests a Probe Against Ruto and Raila for Conducting Early Campaigns

Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has called for investigations against presidential candidates Raila Odinga and William Ruto.

IEBC Chairman Wafula Chebukati wrote to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Noordin Haji requesting investigations against the two leading presidential aspirants over allegations of premature campaigns and the use of public resources in campaigns.

The move follows a complaint filed by Thirdway Alliance party leader Ekuru Aukot accusing Odinga and Ruto of violating Section 14 of the Election Offenses Act, which outlaws the use of public resources for the purpose of campaigning during an election.

“The two are having an undue advantage over other aspirants by dint of using of public resources thus enjoying a competitive edge,” Aukot said in a letter to IEBC dated March 11th.

Aukot asked the electoral commission to bar Odinga and Ruto, who are contesting for the presidency under Azimio and Kenya Kwanza coalitions respectively, from participating in the forthcoming elections.

He accused Ruto of using the deputy president’s official residence in Karen as a venue to host delegations for his UDA party.

Aukot also claimed that President Kenyatta has been using public resources to organize political meetings for Odinga at State House and in local hotels.

“An election, where some aspirants benefit from state resources is compromised and the results arising therefrom cannot be said to have complied with the provisions of the Constitution of Kenya 2010,” Aukot added.

“We urge the commission to take appropriate action, including invoking the provisions of paragraph 9 of the Electoral Code of Conduct and more specifically bar the two from participating in the August general election.”

The official election campaign period begins on May 29th and lapses on August 6th, three days before the election, according to IEBC.