Civil society members in Kitui have voiced strong opposition to the decision to replace National Liberal Party leader Augustus Muli as the Azimio representative on the IEBC selection panel.
The coalition is advocating for Wiper’s Koki Muli to be included in the panel and has urged Azimio principal Kalonzo Musyoka to halt any plans for substitution.
At a press conference in Kitui town, leaders including Musili Kauta from the Centre for Progressive Leadership and Musembi Kitavi from Kitui Peace Economic Front argued against sidelining Muli, stressing that the Parliamentary Parties Liaison Committee’s decision to appoint him must be respected.
Kauta emphasized the potential consequences of undermining Muli’s appointment, stating that such actions could jeopardize the integrity of future elections in Kenya.
“We strongly condemn the controversy surrounding the Azimio selection of representatives for the IEBC panel,” Kauta declared.
Augustus Muli secured significant votes to earn his place on the panel, defeating Wiper party’s candidate Koki by a substantial margin. However, Azimio leadership has contested this outcome.
Azimio Secretary General Junet Mohamed has formally objected to Muli’s appointment, citing concerns over gender balance requirements under the IEBC Amendment Act 2024. He has recommended Koki Muli as an alternative candidate.
In response, Augustus Muli has taken legal action, obtaining interim relief from the Political Parties Disputes Tribunal to halt any changes to the IEBC panel nominations until a full hearing is conducted.
Muli’s lawsuit names Azimio la Umoja, the Political Parties Liaison Committee, and the Parliamentary Service Commission’s secretary as respondents.
The situation remains tense as the dispute over the composition of the IEBC selection panel continues to unfold.
