The High Court in Milimani Nairobi has ruled out the degree requirement for the governor candidates.
Judge Anthony Mrima while making the ruling said the education requirement is unconstitutional and it contravenes section 180 of the constitution which states that; to be eligible to vie as Governor a person must be eligible for election as a Member of the County Assembly (MCA).
Judge Mrima further explained that the qualification for one to vie for a County Governor seat is similar to the eligibility for the election of a Member of the County Assembly.
“A declaration is hereby issued that pursuant to article 180 sub article 2 as read with section 183 of the constitution, the qualification for the election of a County Governor is similar to the eligibility for election as an MCA,” Mrima explained.
The ruling follows a petition filed by voter Victor Buoga through lawyer Harry Arrunda which required the court to declare that the minimum qualifications for the election of a Governor are similar to those of a member of the county assembly.
The requirements have been in existence since 2011 and used to lock out most candidates in the 2013, 2017, and 2022 elections.
The ruling will be effective from the next general election.