Lawyer Katwa Kigen withdraws from IEBC race
Katwa explained that his decision was aimed at preventing any potential distractions that might detract from the commission’s vital mandate.
Lawyer Katwa Kigen on Thursday, April 10, formally stepped down from the ongoing interviews for the position of IEBC Commissioner.
Kigen, who previously represented President William Ruto at the International Criminal Court (ICC) in connection with the 2007/2008 post-election violence, cited doubts about his appropriateness for the role.
He explained that his decision was aimed at preventing any potential distractions that might detract from the commission’s vital mandate.
His withdrawal came just before he was scheduled to appear before the IEBC Selection Panel for his interview.
His shortlisting for the commissioner position sparked controversy, with many raising concerns about his ability to remain impartial if appointed, given his close ties to Ruto as his former lawyer.
Former Law Society of Kenya (LSK) President Nelson Havi previously expressed concerns about issues of accountability and integrity surrounding the President’s legal representative who is seeking elective office.
Havi questioned the appropriateness of an individual who has worked closely with the Head of State for more than two decades running for a position in the same election where the President is also a contender.
"We have a problem of accountability and integrity in Kenya. Why would the President’s known advocate for over 20 years apply to serve in the IEBC to oversee an election where the President will be a candidate? he posed.
"Is the candidate stupid or does he think all Kenyans are stupid?"