IEBC dismisses petition to ban Phillip Okundi from Homa Bay senate race

The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has dismissed a petition by the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party seeking disqualification of Homa Bay senatorial candidate Phillip Okundi.

The petition was dismissed after the petitioner, ODM aspirant Moses Kajwang' failed to appear for the hearing at the IEBC offices in Homa Bay town.

County Returning Officer Maurice Raria however, said the criminal allegations in the petition are being investigated by police and appropriate legal steps will be taken if they are proved to be true.

"Orders can only be issued in law if the prayer issues evidence. The complainant failed to appear in person or present evidence to the effect of the allegations irrespective of sufficient notices we gave," said Raria.

In a petition dated January 31, Kajwang' accused Okundi of sponsoring violence contrary to the Electoral Code of Conduct under Section 57 (6) of the Election Act. Kajwang' dwelt on an incident in which he was reportedly attacked by perceived Okundi supporters at a funeral in Olare.