IEBC Defends Sex Predator Candidate Approved For KTDA Zone Director
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has clarified its decision to approve John Chebochok as a candidate, following allegations about his suitability to run for Kenya Tea Development Agency zonal director Tegat/Toror Tea Factory.
In a statement issued by IEBC Secretary Marjan Hussein Marjan, the Commission clarified that Chebochok met all of the requirements and that no formal complaints had been filed against him or his character.
"There was no formal record of any complaint raised against the candidature of John Chebochok during the prescribed period."
— KBC PLUG💯🇰🇪 (@KenWoulfgun) July 5, 2024
– Marjan Hussein Marjan, IEBC Secretary/CEO pic.twitter.com/puyAQixYwf
“John Chebochok presented a valid certificate of good conduct, and therefore, qualified as a person of good standing in terms of the provisions of the Article of Association of Tegat/Toror Tea Factory Company,” Marjan stated.
Chebochok was implicated in a BBC Eye on Africa sexual exploitation investigation that put him at the center of the vice.
Notably, Chebochok was elected as the Kenya Tea Development Agency (KTDA) zonal director for Kericho County on Friday.
Despite concerns raised by several organizations and human rights groups about his candidacy, he was thrust into an influential tea industry leadership position.
Chebochok defeated Philip Tonui and Serem in the IEBC-conducted election.
Marjan went on to elaborate on the vetting process, stating that there were no formal objections to Chebochok’s candidacy.
“There was no formal record of any complaint raised against the candidature of John Chebochok during the prescribed period,” he emphasized.
According to the electoral body, the lack of complaints supports the IEBC’s position that Chebochok’s candidacy was legitimate and in accordance with all applicable regulations.
Chebochok’s defence comes in response to recent criticisms and unverified claims in the media and public forums.
These allegations suggested that Chebochok was unsuitable for the position due to alleged previous misconduct and unfair treatment of his subordinates.
IEBC Defends Sex Predator Candidate Approved For KTDA Zone Director
