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IEBC Chairperson Erastus Ethekon |
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission has fined Kipipiri Member of Parliament Wanjiku Muhia KSh1.5 million over alleged inflammatory remarks. The commission also directed the legislator to issue a public apology following its findings.
IEBC's Electoral Code of Conduct Enforcement Committee ruled that the complaint met the required legal standard during its proceedings. The committee said the evidence presented supported claims that Muhia breached the Electoral Code of Conduct.
IEBC Orders Public Apology Within Set Conditions
IEBC Commissioner Alutalala Mukhwana announced the decision during a media briefing held on Friday, July 10. He said the committee considered written submissions, oral testimonies, documentary evidence, and relevant election laws before reaching its verdict.
The committee ordered Muhia to avoid making similar statements during future political activities across the country. It warned that such remarks could encourage violence, intimidation, hatred, and hostility among members of the public.
MP Given Seventy-Two Hours to Pay Fine
The commission instructed the Kipipiri lawmaker to pay the KSh1.5 million fine within seventy-two hours after receiving the ruling. IEBC warned that failing to obey the directive could attract further penalties under the Elections Act.
The committee stated that continued noncompliance could affect Muhia's eligibility to participate in future elections conducted by the commission. The warning forms part of enforcement measures aimed at promoting peaceful political campaigns across Kenya.
Rally Remarks Triggered Public Debate
The case followed remarks allegedly made by Muhia during a political rally held recently in Nyandarua County. According to the commission, the statements attracted widespread criticism after circulating across social media platforms.
The comments also sparked reactions from political leaders and members of the public who questioned their implications. The growing debate eventually prompted the commission to summon the legislator for disciplinary proceedings.
DCI Also Recorded Statement From Legislator
Before the IEBC hearing, officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations summoned Muhia to record a statement. Investigators sought her account regarding allegations linked to the controversial rally remarks in Nyandarua County.
The investigations formed part of separate efforts to examine claims surrounding the statements made during the campaign event. Authorities have continued monitoring political activities as campaigns intensify ahead of the Ol Kalou by-election.
IEBC Summons Nakuru MP David Gikaria
During the same briefing, Commissioner Mukhwana confirmed that Nakuru Town East MP David Gikaria had also received a summons. The commission wants the legislator to respond to allegations involving possible violations during the Ol Kalou campaigns.
The summons followed Gikaria's public admission that his team distributed KSh1.2 million during a political rally. IEBC will review the allegations before determining whether further action should follow under the Electoral Code of Conduct.
