IEBC Chairman Issack Hassan says his team will not resign; asks CORD leaders to table evidence of graft against commissioners.
This comes after various organisations and individuals have spoken about the commission and preparedness for the next general elections.
IEBC maintains that there is no time left as elections are only 14 months away.
“The public offices we hold are creatures of that Constitution and by it we shall be guided. Holding public office is no excuse to be defamed and abused. We should not be punching bags or objects of hatred because of the decisions we make in exercising our functions,” said Issack Hassan in a press statement.
The commission condemns Cord leader Raila Odinga’s claims that the commissioners have entered into an agreement with the Jubilee Coalition and the president to rig the next election in return for jobs.
“We want to dare him to produce and publish any evidence today and we will resign immediately. This character assassination of public officials is not what we expect from our leaders.”
IEBC maintains that it is here to serve all Kenyans equally and will do so without fear or favour.
“As a matter of fact, the Commission has held more meetings with Cord than any other political party or group. If anything, in the last one year, the Commission has held 5 consultative meetings with the Cord leadership.”
“For the avoidance of doubt, the Commissioners are not resigning. We will be setting a dangerous precedent if every time we disagree with a decision we seek the removal from office of those we do not agree with. We are committed to fulfill our constitutional mandate and give this country a flawless, free and credible election in 2017.”
