Win for Kigame as court orders IEBC to accept his nomination papers
By Wycliffe Nyamasege, July 18, 2022The High Court on Monday, July 18, 2022, quashed a decision by the electoral body to reject the nomination of gospel singer Reuben Kigame for the presidency.
Justice Anthony Mrima ruled that the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) violated Kigame’s rights and ordered the commission to accept and review the aspirant’s nomination papers.
The judge, however, declined to order IEBC to include Kigame’s name on the ballot, saying the court would be overstepping its mandate on the role of the commission.
But reacting to the ruling, IEBC lawyer Moses Kipkogey said it would be hard to comply with the orders since the commission had already printed ballots to be used in the presidential poll slated for August 9.
On his part, Kigame welcomed the ruling describing it as a major victory in his quest to be on the ballot.
“How can I thank God enough for the ruling on my case of exclusion from the ballot by IEBC
and Wafula Chebukati!!!! It is finally possible for me to be on the ballot! Long live Justice and may God bless all who have prayed for me,” the singer said in a tweet.
He added: “It has been a very long wait and quite dark for the last seven weeks. But I say #LipoTumaini #EndaNasi #JengaMkenya It’s not just victory for me and my great team, but also for those who want a new Kenya led by Utu and Maadili.”
How can I thank God enough for the ruling on my case of exclusion from the ballot by @IEBCKenya and @WChebukati !!!! It is finally possible for me to be on the ballot! Long live Justice and may God bless all who have prayed for me. @MapinduziKE @HManyora @alaminkimathi
— @ReubenKigame HSC (@ReubenKigame) July 18, 2022
Kigame was locked out of the presidential contest on May 30 by IEBC Chairman Wafula Chebukati, who is the National Returning Officer for the Presidential election.
Kigame cries foul
Speaking to members of the press after being denied clearance, Kigame said that he was informed by the IEBC boss that he did not meet all the qualifications to run for Presidency.
He was among several candidates who were turned away by the commission for failing to meet various requirements.
“When I wanted to seek audience with the Chair and have a redress of this matter, security barred me from entering the Bomas of Kenya saying no aspirant was being allowed,” he said.
Only four candidates were cleared. They are Azimio – One Kenya coalition’s Raila Odinga, William Ruto (United Democratic Alliance), David Mwaure Waihiga (Agano Party) and Prof. George Wajackoyah of the Roots Party.