Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) CEO Ezra Chiloba (R), chairman Wafula Chebukati and commissioner Rose Kwamboka. [Photo/kenyans.co.ke]

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The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has strongly defended itself, following attacks from the National Super Alliance (Nasa), over an appeal in Court.

Nasa threatened to boycott the August 8, elections, if an appeal filed by the Commission is accepted. 

Through chairman Wafula Chebukati, IEBC wants the Appellate Court to overturn a High Court ruling which says presidential election results announced at the constituency level, should be final. IEBC wants the results be declared final, by its chairman. According to the agency, the Constitution allows it to declare all winners during elections. However, Nasa principals are opposed to this, saying it was IEBC's plot to rig elections, and would not allow the close, overturned.

In a statement, Chebukati clarified, saying: "Our appeal at the Court of Appeal is in regard to seeking clarifications of the ruling of the High Court about declaration of results and interpretations of how that ruling aligns with various articles of the Constitution of Kenya.''

He reminded all political players in the country that just like any other Kenyan, IEBC had the right to seek the protection of the Judiciary and the Courts on matters that need legal interpretation.

''Coming forth to threaten IEBC that unless it withdraws the case, there would be a boycott of the elections amounts to a threat of the independence of IEBC and muffling an entity from pursuing a right that is enshrined in the Constitution of Kenya.''Chebukati urged players that may have an issue with the appeal to ask the Courts, so as to be enjoined in the case, or alternatively, await the completion of the case and seek a judicial intervention, if need be.''We want to remind Kenyans that the Commission is committed to deliver a free, fair and credible election that is anchored in the law and governed by our Constitution and Election Laws. Our going to court is part of this commitment,'' Chebukati said, Monday.