Judge grants time to Kisii Governor Ongwae's counsel to conclude negotiations with petitioner

Governor James Ongwae

The counsel team representing petitioners in an election appeal against Governor James Ongwae has applied for leave to file extra evidence.

The petitioners' Counsel, led by Omwansa Ombati, told High Judge Hellen Omondi that he had filed two applications seeking to add more information in the case.

Mr Omwansa said he is seeking for certificate of digital photography to have an expert in court to certify some of the documents he has attached. He told the court that some of the information he is seeking will be received from the American Embassy and involves one of the respondents.

Advocate Okongo Omogeni representing the third, fourth and fifth respondents; Governor James Ongwae, Deputy Governor Joash Maangi and Naftal Obwocha, told the court that he has not received the applications and he intended to oppose the same.

Judge Omondi directed the legal teams to file the applications before September 29 and responses by October 2.

“The court will also issue directions on pretrial on October 5 and on the same day have instructions on the applications.”

In the first petition, two voters are seeking the nullification of Governor Ongwae on ground that he tampered with the election process, used county funds in the campaign. Judge Omondi directed that the negotiations be concluded within seven days until October 5.