The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) had listed 55 presidential aspirants for the pre-nomination exercise.
However, IEBC chairman Wafula Chebukati cleared only four presidential candidates to face off in the August 9, presidential elections.
Eleven presidential candidates out of the 55 were barred from contesting for the country’s top seat after they failed to present the names of their running mates on time.
Others were blocked after they failed to present 2,000 signatures from at least 24 counties as a pre-nomination requirement while some were locked out due to their controversial degree certificates.
Among those who were barred from facing presidential front runners, William Ruto and Raila Odinga include gospel singer Reuben Kigame.
The Hunianchi hitmaker was barred from contesting over the alleged lack of adequate voters’ signatures to support his bid.
However, with 20 days to the August 9 presidential contest, the High Court on Monday, July 18, ordered IEBC chairman Wafula Chebukati to include the name of Reuben Kigame on the presidential ballot papers.
Judge Antony Mrima said the returning officers for the presidential election Wafula Chebukati erred in law by barring Kigame from contesting.
“An order of certiorari do issue against the 1st and 2nd (IEBC and Wafula Chebukati) respondents quashing their decision that the petitioner (Kigame) did not qualify to proceed to the next level to be considered for registration as a presidential candidate,” reads the ruling.
In a statement, Kigame thanked all those who stood with him during the period saying that his inclusion on the ballot papers was a clear indication that the country’s justice system have improved.
“How can I thank God enough for the ruling on my case of exclusion from the ballot by IEBC and Wafula Chebukati!!!! It is finally possible for me to be on the ballot! Long live Justice and may God bless all who have prayed for me,” Kagame stated.
Kigame will face off with Deputy President William Ruto of UDA, Raila Odinga of the Azimio la Umoja-One Kenya Alliance, David Mwaure of Agano party, and Roots Party of Kenya George Wajackoyah.
