EU Observer Mission Warns Against The Persistent Criticism Of The Judiciary And IEBC

The EU Observer Mission has cautioned Kenyan politicians against their constant criticism of the Judiciary and the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission.

In a statement released, the mission, which observed the August 8 polls, said the actions of both the ruling party and the opposition members, are undermining the independence of both bodies.

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They added that it has also negatively affected any confidence people have in the forthcoming repeat presidential election.

“Since the election, NASA and Jubilee have at times been undermining the IEBC and the judiciary respectively. NASA leaders have referred to the IEBC as being “taken over by criminals” (1 September 2017).” Just after the Supreme Court ruling, President Kenyatta referred to the judges as “crooks” and stated “I have always said, there is a problem with our Judiciary though we respect it,” said the statement.

“Just after the Supreme Court ruling, President Kenyatta referred to the judges as “crooks” and stated “I have always said, there is a problem with our Judiciary though we respect it”,” said the statement.

The EU Observer Mission further recommended that full and effective investigations are needed to ensure confidence is restored and all involved are brought to justice.

“This includes the Office of the Director of Public Prosecution and other constitutionally independent commissions that support the sovereign power of the people of Kenya, as established in the Constitution.”

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It then made known the intention of the EU to come back and observe the election re-run with a field presence of long and short-term observers in different parts of the country.

“The EU EOM will assess implementation of these recommendations, adherence to the legal framework of Kenya, and compliance with Kenya’s international commitments.”

It stated that it will release a full final report with long-term recommendations some two months after completion of the entire electoral process, including the re-run.