Most Kenyans don't trust IEBC, want Chiloba out - Infotrak

Most Kenyans have no trust in IEBC and want IEBC CEO Ezra Chiloba to quit ahead of election, an Infotrak poll has found.

The findings released on Friday show 52.4 per cent of the public do not trust the commission, compared to the 39.8 per cent who do.

The researcher found 43.8 per cent Kenyans want Chiloba and his key managers to step aside while 41.1 per cent want IEBC chair Wafula Chebukati and his fellow commissioners to make this move.

But 17.2 per cent want an overhaul to strengthen the results transmission system while 13.3 per cent want the commission to invite outsiders to oversee the election.

After the Supreme Court ruling that nullified president Uhuru Kenyatta's victory, the Opposition demanded changes at IEBC saying this is the only way they will take part in the re-run.

NASA demanded that Chiloba resign over a "sham election" and warned they will not return to the ballot with him at the helm.

Presidential candidate Raila Odinga and his team also want the commission to restructure and ensure the election is fair.

The EU Observer Mission said investigations must be carried out and reforms made before the repeat election ordered by the Supreme Court.

More on poll: Spot checks show confusion, not rigging in Kenyan election - EU

Also read: Reform election processes before October vote, EU observers tell IEBC

'MAJORITY SUPPORT OCTOBER ELECTIONS'

According to the poll, 84 per cent support the October 17 election date IEBC set following a directive by the Supreme Court that was related by Chief Justice David Maraga.

Fourteen per cent opposed the date, 76.7 per cent of this group saying they want it pushed to November 1.

Some 14.9 per cent want the election held on October 24 while 8.4 per cent don't know when they would like to vote.

Opposition leader Raila Odinga dismissed IEBC's decision to hold fresh polls on October 17 saying it is a date set by Jubilee.

He said KCPE and KCSE examinations should be pushed if necessary but Education CS Fred Matiang'i said nothing will get in the way of the tests.

More on this: School heads oppose Raila's call to delay KCPE, KCSE for polls

Also read: Hold poll before October 17 to protect KCPE, KCSE candidates - Matiang'i

According to the Infotrak, 76.7 per cent Kenyans supported the top court's ruling for a fresh election while 21.6 per cent did not.

The researcher reported 75 per cent Kenyans have faith in the Judiciary that has been under a scathing attack as a result of the ruling.

CJ David Maraga has been receiving flak and Nyeri Town MP Ngunjiri Wamgugu has filed a petition for his removal from office.

Government spokesman Eric Kiraithe told Maraga to have thick skin and remain focused while the President asked the MP to "let go" as peace and victory are what are important to the ruling coalition.

Read: Maraga has 'shock absorbers' for attacks, should remain focused - Kiraithe

Also read: I understand your pain but leave Maraga alone, Uhuru tells Ngunjiri

The survey was conducted on September 8 and 9 and involved 1,500 respondents who represented 19.6m registered voters. The poll covered eight regions and 47 counties and had a margin of error of +/- 2.53 and a 95 per cent degree of confidence.

Source