Eldoret-based human rights activist Kipkorir Ngetich has come out strongly to condemn what he terms as “politically sponsored litigation” aimed at halting the approval of recently nominated IEBC commissioners. In a strongly-worded statement issued on Friday, Ngetich decried the court petition filed by certain individuals and civil society groups seeking to block the approval process, claiming the move is part of a broader strategy to destabilize the country ahead of the next general election.
"This is not just a legal challenge—it is a carefully orchestrated political assault on our democracy. These are the same individuals who have been calling for a fully constituted IEBC, yet now they are the ones in court trying to derail the process," said Ngetich.
He warned that the consequences of delaying the IEBC appointments are dire and could result in serious disruptions to the election calendar, risking the possibility of unrest, civil disobedience, or even a constitutional crisis.
"These elements have weaponized the judiciary against the state and are comfortably relying on predetermined outcomes in court. Their endgame is to create a chaotic environment, claim election rigging, and stir mass protests," he said.
Ngetich emphasized that the nominees had undergone a legally mandated vetting process by a panel of experts, and any objections should have been raised at that stage—not through post-factum litigation. “Taxpayers’ money was spent, and the legal process followed. Anyone with objections had their chance,” he said.
He further appealed to the judiciary to consider the implications of their rulings on national security and democratic continuity. “We respect the independence of the judiciary, but there are times when the broader interests of peace and stability must inform decisions of national importance,” he added.
Ngetich accused certain political factions of inciting the youth and preparing for post-ruling unrest. “We are calling on our youth not to be misused by power-hungry elites who have no interest in the country’s progress,” he cautioned, urging security agencies to be vigilant.
In a controversial remark, the activist hinted that any disruption to the electoral timeline could force the extension of Parliament’s term and President Ruto’s stay in office to preserve peace and order. “Elections need time, resources, and planning. Delay tactics are the worst injustice to the Kenyan people,” he asserted.
He concluded by affirming that President Ruto has shown his commitment to free and fair elections and warned political actors against attempts to harass or intimidate the head of state.
“There is no vacuum in the Office of the President. Let no one think they can take power through courtrooms or street chaos. Power is earned at the ballot every five years as enshrined in our Constitution,” he said.
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