Main reasons why Roselyne Akombe resigned from IEBC

Roselyne Akombe

The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) senior staff Roselyne Akombe has quit her job, eight days before October 26 repeat presidential election.

In a statement, Akombe highlighted some of the reasons why she could not be part of the October 26 repeat polls.

1.Credible election

Akombe said the Commission needs to be courageous and speak out, that this election as planned cannot meet the basic expectations of a credible election.

She revealed IEBC staff are getting last minute instructions on changes in technology and electronic transmission of results.

2.Supreme Court order

On September 1, Supreme Court ordered IEBC to conduct fresh presidential election that is in accordance with the constitution within 60 days.  Roselyne Akombe said IEBC should have been frank with the Kenyan people and clearly state the challenges the commission faces in organising a free, fair, and credible election.

3.Political crisis

Last week, Akombe toured Nyanza and Western region as IEBC worked to train presiding officers to handle the forthcoming election. She says that she shared detailed reports from staff in four of the Counties most hit by the ongoing protests - Nairobi, Siaya, Kisumu, and Homa Bay - with the hope that this will bring sobriety to the commission’s decision making.

But, instead it was met with more extremist responses from most Commissioners.

4.Safety and security concerns

The IEBC commissioner said some of IEBC commissioners were keen to have an election even if it is at the cost of the lives of their staff and voters at large.

She condemned Tuesday attack on IEBC staff in Mumias, Bungoma, Homabay, Siaya, and Kisumu.

“It is unacceptable for any party to disrupt, attack and injure our staff in Mumias, Bungoma, Homabay, Siaya, and Kisumu as they did today. These acts must be condemned by all and action taken against the perpetrators,” read part of the statement.

5.Intimidation of IEBC staff

According to the statement, Akombe says IEBC staff are being intimidated by political actors and protestors and the fear for their lives. She said the legal advice is skewed to fit partisan political interests.

“The Commission in its current state can surely not guarantee a credible election on 26 October 2017. I do not want to be party to such a mockery to electoral integrity, “she added.