ELDORET: The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has been directed by the Eldoret High Court to gazette Evans Kapkea as the new Deputy Governor of Uasin Gishu County within seven days.
According to Kenya News Agency, Justice Reuben Nyakundi of the Eldoret High Court issued the order to IEBC’s Chief Executive Officer, Marjan Hussein Marjan, mandating the issuance of the gazette notice promptly after the court’s decision. This ruling comes following the successful nomination and vetting of Evans Kipruto Kapkea by the Governor of Uasin Gishu County and the County Assembly, adhering to the required legal procedures.
The court’s involvement was sought after the County Government petitioned for the gazetting of Kapkea, who was nominated by Governor Jonathan Bii on August 21, 2024, and subsequently vetted and approved by the County Assembly. Kapkea, who previously served as the MCA for Tembelio Ward, was nominated following the resignation of the former Deputy Governor, Eng. John Barorot.
Justi
ce Nyakundi articulated that the court had full jurisdiction to adjudicate on the matter, emphasizing that the petition demonstrated a breach of the residents’ rights to representation, which are pivotal to the values of human rights, equality, freedom, democracy, social justice, and the rule of law. He further noted that Governor Bii is authorized to initiate the Gazettement of Kapkea, which would facilitate his immediate swearing-in and assumption of office, should IEBC fail to act as directed.
The IEBC’s request to the court to stay the execution of the order was denied, reinforcing the urgency and importance of the matter. Governor Bii responded positively to the court’s decision, highlighting it as a significant victory for devolution and expressing optimism about the IEBC fulfilling its duties to allow the county government to serve its constituents effectively.
