President Uhuru Kenyatta skips special IEBC meeting

Wafula Chebukati, Ezra Chiloba, Uhuru Kenyatta and Raila Odinga (Photo: Courtesy)

The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) invited two presidential candidates in a separate meeting on Tuesday ahead of the fresh poll.

IEBC called upon President Uhuru Kenyatta and Opposition leader Raila Odinga to meet in a special session to discuss the conduct of the repeat presidential election slated for October 26.

“We look forward to meeting with the presidential candidates. We hope to create a common understanding on the 26th October poll,” IEBC posted on Twitter.

Only Raila showed up for the meeting alongside other Opposition leaders at the Bomas of Kenya to discuss the way forward.

 The National Super Alliance (NASA) failed to reach a consensus with the electoral body after the coalition noted that their irreducible minimums were not met.

Addressing the media after the talks at Bomas of Kenya, Siaya Senator James Orengo indicated IEBC had not addressed some of the issues that led to a flawed process in the August 8 General election.

“The Supreme Court didn’t rule elections must be held on 26th. We insist our irreducible minimums must be met for purposes of having an election, and in accordance with the Constitution.

 “The best that has happened is that we will have another meeting and expect Commission will respond substantially to issues raised. If we go the route set out by Commission, elections will be held within 60 days but it will not be held in accordance with the law,” Orengo pointed out.

On his part, Deputy President William Ruto indicated that the Jubilee Party was ready for the fresh presidential showdown.

He was accompanied by other Jubilee leaders who met with IEBC chair Wafula Chebukati at Bomas.