The High Court has temporarily stopped the vetting process for President William Ruto’s seven nominees to the electoral commission(chairperson and six commissioners, following a petition by two citizens that raises questions over the legality of their selection.
Justice Lawrence Mugambi of the Constitutional Division in Milimani, Nairobi, issued the order on Monday in response to a legal challenge that cites alleged procedural violations.The ruling is set to be delivered on May 29, 2025.
The committee was to conduct public vetting sessions beginning May 26, 2025, at 9:30 am in the Mini Chamber, First Floor, County Hall, Parliament Buildings.
The court’s decision can be viewed as a setback to the long-delayed process of reconstituting the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), which has remained incomplete for two years.
Legal experts say the order could significantly delay the establishment of a new electoral team, crucial for overseeing upcoming elections and restoring public trust in the IEBC.
The full details of the alleged legal missteps remain under judicial review, but the case is expected to spark renewed scrutiny over the transparency and legality of appointments to key constitutional offices.
