Kilifi leaders urge fast resolution of IEBC deadlock, slam delays in Magarini by-election
The leaders sharply criticised court cases that have stalled the formal appointment of new commissioners, arguing that the delays have denied citizens—especially Magarini residents—their constitutional right to representation.
Political leaders from Kilifi County are calling for an urgent resolution to the ongoing stalemate over the swearing-in of Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) commissioners, warning that the deadlock is crippling key electoral functions across the country.
Speaking during a public forum in Magarini Constituency, the leaders sharply criticised court cases that have stalled the formal appointment of new commissioners, arguing that the delays have denied citizens—especially Magarini residents—their constitutional right to representation.
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Among those who raised concerns at the event held at Marafa Vocational Training Centre were National Assembly Deputy Majority Leader Owen Baya, Kilifi Woman Representative Gertrude Mbeyu, and former Magarini MP Harrison Kombe.
Baya blamed individuals behind the legal petitions for derailing national progress and undermining the democratic process.
“Those constantly seeking court orders to block the swearing-in of IEBC commissioners must stop. Their actions are crippling critical electoral functions, including by-elections in areas like Magarini,” he said.
Legal hurdles
He added that despite the National Assembly completing the vetting and approval process, legal hurdles were unnecessarily delaying the formation of a fully operational electoral body.
Mbeyu echoed similar concerns, noting that prolonged litigation could jeopardise preparations for the 2027 General Election.
“Every day the commissioners remain unsworn brings us closer to an electoral crisis. If we wait until 2026 to resolve this, how will we organise a proper election in 2027?” she asked.
The Magarini seat has remained vacant for over a year following the nullification of Kombe’s election victory. A by-election was expected, but it cannot be held without a fully constituted IEBC.
Kombe called on President William Ruto to intervene and break the deadlock.
“The people of Magarini have been left without a voice in Parliament for far too long. We need the President to step in and ensure the IEBC is constituted so residents can finally elect their representative,” he said.
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