128 election petitions filed in Kenya

There were 128 petitions filed across the country, including those challenging 12 governors arising from the August 9 election.

Among the county bosses who face petitions are Busia governor Dr Paul Otuoma whose election was challenged by Sakwa Bunyasi, Homa Bay governor Wanga whose election has been challenged by former Nairobi governor Evans Kidero, Joseph Lenku Kajiado Anne Waiguru Kirinyaga and Ahmed Abdullahi Wajir. Among the senators who have been challenged are Vihiga senators Godfrey Otsi and

The election of three women representatives has been challenged while 27 MPs including Didimus Barasa, who is facing murder charges, is facing election petitions. 72 MCAs are facing election petitions.

After the 2017 general election, a total of 388 election petitions were filed, including one challenging the re-election of President Uhuru Kenyatta whose win was overturned by the Supreme Court.

174 of the 388 petitions filed post-2017 general election challenge the election of governors and members of county assemblies. 125 were challenging the election of MPs and senators and women representatives. There were 98 petitions challenging the election of MPs.

There were 188 election petitions filed in 2013 that contested various elective seats.

To challenge the presidential election, a petitioner must deposit Sh 1 million as security for costs, plus another Sh 500,000 for lodging of the petition, while anyone who wants to challenge the election of an MP must deposit Sh 500,000 in court.

The cases must be completed within six months but some cases take a long time due to applications and appeals.

The judges have already been referred to by the Judiciary.