IEBC denies ICT Director James Muhati suspension as another document leaks to the public

IEBC chair Wafula Chebukati with CEO Ezra Chiloba during a press conference. (Photo: Courtesy)

The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission has dismissed reports that three IEBC officials have been suspended.

In a tweet on Tuesday night, IEBC indicated that the internal memo that confirmed the suspension was leaked and the matter was still under discussion.

The electoral body reiterated that no decision was taken to suspend James Muhati (ICT Director), Paul Mugo (ICT Coordinator) and Boniface Wamae (ICT Officer).

The new leaked doc was internal and still under discussion by the Commission. No final decision has been taken on the issues. Regrettable — IEBC (@IEBCKenya) September 19, 2017

 

The memo indicated that the officials were suspended after it was confirmed they failed to deliver their mandate in the August 8 General Election.

“Quite patently, the ICT Director and two members of staff involved in managing SFTP platform, appear to have fallen short of assisting the Commission successfully discharge this collegial and constitutionally enshrined mandate,” read part of IEBC chairman Wafula Chebukati’s internal memo.

He indicated that the electoral body does not need to wait for the detailed Supreme Court ruling to effect changes ahead of the repeat presidential election slated for October 17.

"I reiterate that we don't need to wait for the reasoned judgement to enable the commission commence rectification of any shortcomings that may be evident from the elections," he said.

The chairman noted that the move is not only meant to restore public confidence in the commission, but also to assure its integrity as per the law.

“This suspension is necessary to not just restore public confidence in the commission’s ability to prepare and deliver credible polls but also assert the integrity and fidelity of the commission to the rule of law,” he stated in the memo.