IEBC owes it to nation to deliver fair polls

From Right: Chief Executive Officer Ezra Chiloba, IEBC chairman Chebukati Wafula and Commissioner Roselyne Akombe at their Anniversary Towers office. (Photo: Jenipher Wachie/Standard)

The turmoil at the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) couldn't have come at a worse time. Already, there are fears about what the sudden suspension of ICT Director James Muhati and the apparent rift between commissioners and the secretariat over the tender for the printing of ballot papers portends for the August elections. Mr Muhati was suspended over claims that he failed to co-operate in an internal audit process.

His role is critical given that the elections are technology-backed. Reports that infighting has delayed a final decision on a restricted tendering after the High Court nullified an earlier award of the Sh2.5 billion tender to Dubai-based firm Al Ghurair Printing and Publishing are equally unsettling.