Independent Presidential aspirant Reuben Kigame has welcomed a High Court decision to direct the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to consider his papers.
Justice Anthony Mrima in his ruling on Monday, July 18, 2022, said IEBC had discriminated against Kigame for not considering his presidential papers.
Reacting to the ruling, the renowned gospel musician described it as a win for many Kenyans who felt they had no better choice on the presidential ballot after IEBC only cleared four candidates.
“This is a win for Kenyans that want a new start, a start of fearing God, a start for violence-free campaigns and development targeting the common mwannachi,” said Kigame during a media briefing at his home in Eldoret town.
“It’s not just victory for me and my great team, but also for those who want a new Kenya led by Utu and Maadili. It has been a very long wait and quite dark for the last seven weeks. But I say #LipoTumaini #EndaNasi #JengaMkenya,” he added in a tweet.
Kigame insisted that he was ready to hit the ground running and seek votes from across the country in the remaining few days.
On concerns that he might not be on the presidential ballot despite the High Court ruling, he cautioned IEBC that they risk another nullification should they disregard the order.
IEBC lawyer Moses Kipkogey had told the court that it is impossible to comply with the order because the commission had already printed ballot papers for presidential candidates.
“The 2017 election was nullified because of the process, and I want to remind IEBC that it will be a huge mistake for them not to include my name on the ballot because it can be a basis for nullifying the presidential election,” said the gospel singer.
With the High Court ruling, Kigame now remains hopeful that his presidential bid remains on course.
