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Head of Anglican Church Blasts Uhuru Over Attacks on CJ Maraga and Judiciary

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By LAVERA NDANUNGA for the Star

Politicians’ attacks on the Supreme Court are unnecessary, ACK Archbishop Jackson ole Sapit has told politicians following the September 1 verdict on the presidential election.

Chief Justice David Maraga, in a decision supported by four out of six judges, ordered that IEBC conducts fresh polls within 60 days as the August 8 vote was not in line with the constitution and other laws.

Determinations by judges Philomena Mwilu (Deputy Chief Custice), Isaac Leanaola and Smokin Wanjala also favoured the National Super Alliance. Judges Njoki Ndungu and Jackton Ojwang’ dissented in the matter.

The verdict has seen leaders including President Uhuru Kenyatta attack the highest court amid celebrations by supporters of Opposition candidate Raila Odinga.

But Sapit asked politicians to stop the attacks and urged IEBC to ensure Kenyans get a free, fair and credible fresh election.

“The court, in its verdict, did what it was mandated to do and presented Kenyans with the facts. It is not right for any leader to threaten this institution,” he said.

“IEBC has been given a second chance to handle the will of the people and they should, therefore, be careful that there are no more irregularities.”

Sapit spoke at Bomani grounds in Mumias town on Sunday during the consecration of new Mumias Diocese Bishop Joseph Wandera.

He added the Anglican Church respects the verdict of the highest court in the land.

Wandera, the new bishop, advised leaders to be patient with the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission.

Uhuru’s team has declared it is ready for the repeat of the presidential election and asked the electoral agency to declare a date as soon as possible.

But Wandera said: “It is important that we be patient and wait for the IEBC to give us the new election date.”

The leaders also commended Raila for seeking justice in the court.

“As the church, we are glad he took our counsel and presented his grievances to the court. We now want them to hold their campaigns in the proper way,” retired Bishop Benaiah Salala said.

Several leaders and organisations the judicial officers serve as members have condemned the attacks on Maraga and his team.

The Kenya Magistrates and Judges Association and the Law Society of Kenya said the backlash is unfortunate and inappropriate.

LSK president Isaac Okero said the President is obliged to respect, uphold and safeguard the constitution.

“The President enjoys immunity from civil and criminal proceedings and must, therefore, promote and enhance the unity of the nation,” he said in a statement.

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