The push by the Azimio coalition to have a say in electoral justice and related matters seems to have bore fruits as major reforms were recommended.
The National Dialogue Committee (NADCO) on Saturday unveiled a report with several recommendations.
The report was signed by NADCO co-chairs Kalonzo Musyoka of the Azimio Coalition and Kimani Ichung'wah of the Kenya Kwanza Coalition.
Evaluation of the 2022 electoral process.
In the report, both camps agreed to recommend the evaluation of the 2022 electoral process.
The evaluation of the 2022 elections was much pushed by the Azimio side as they have time and again asked for a forensic audit of the 2022 presidential election.
They had also proposed the audit be made public so that Kenyans could know the 'truth' about the elections.
IEBC selection panel
The committee also recommended the establishment of an expanded IEBC selection panel from the current 7-member to a 9-member selection panel.
President William Ruto had on February 2023 appointed nominees for the selection panel for the recruitment of IEBC commissioners.
In a gazette notice, Ruto appointed the seven members who will lead the recruitment of nominees for appointments as the chairperson and members of IEBC commissioners.
The committee further reached a consensus on the restructuring and reconstitution of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission.
In August, Kenya Kwanza and Azimio la Umoja coalitions agreed to allow the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission to continue with its mandate.
Ichung'wah said the panel's mandate will not be interfered with.
Supreme Court petition
Another recommendation from the committee is the increase of timelines within which the Supreme Court shall hear and determine a petition challenging the validity of a presidential election from 14 to 21 days.
Electoral legal reforms
On electoral legal reforms, NADCO has recommended that legal reforms passed less than 18 months before the general elections become effective in the next electoral cycle.
The report was forwarded to the two coalition leaders electronically.
Speaking while releasing the report, Kalonzo and Ichung'wah described it as a product of sacrifice between both parties.
"Throughout this process, concessions were made, entrenched positions were relinquished, but unwavering dedication to the welfare of our beloved nation prevailed," the two said in a joint statement.
"We have placed Kenya above personal ambitions, recognizing that our people's unity and our nation's prosperity are paramount."
