Kenya: Supreme Court election decision expected November 20

Event

Kenya's Supreme Court is set to issue a ruling on Monday, November 20, on two cases that may nullify the October 26 re-election of President Uhuru Kenyatta. The cases were brought forth by two human rights activists and a former lawmaker who argued that the October vote did not meet electoral standards. The cases hinge upon the court's appraisal of the actions of the Independent Electoral Boundaries Commission (IEBC) during the election period.

A heightened security presence is expected near the Supreme Court in Nairobi on Monday. Protests may occur in major cities nationwide after the decision is released; as such, violent clashes between demonstrators and security personnel cannot be ruled out.

Context

President Kenyatta won the August 8 presidential elections with 54 percent of the vote; however, on September 1, the Supreme Court officially invalidated the vote due to "irregularities." Presidential re-run elections were later held on October 26. However, opposition leader Raila Odinga boycotted the vote. President Kenyatta won re-election with 98 percent of the vote, but with only 39 percent voter turnout.

Advice

Individuals in Kenya are advised to avoid all public gatherings (particularly political events) due to the risk of violence, to monitor the situation, and to shelter in place in the event of a deterioration in the local security situation (widespread violent protests, etc.). Additionally, those undertaking long-distance travel within the country in the coming days are advised to consider traveling via plane (rather than by road) to minimize exposure to security threats.