Esther Oyugi
New information has emerged following the passing of Geoffrey Gitobu, an Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) returning officer in Kirinyaga County’s Gichugu Constituency.
Gitobu passed away on August 22 at around 2:00 p.m.
Gitobu passed away on Monday night, according to Kirinyaga County IEBC Manager Jane Gitonga, who noted that he had taken a quick vacation from visiting the Nanyuki IEBC offices to visit his family in Nanyuki.
He apparently fell down after that and was taken to Cottage Hospital Nanyuki, where he passed away.
“It’s with profound sadness that I officially announce the sudden demise of our dear colleague and friend Mr. Geoffrey Gitobu Senior Election Officer, Gichugu Constituency who collapsed and died today at 1400hrs,” Gitonga wrote in a social media forum.
“Post-mortem will be carried out to identify the cause of death. Full details will be shared in due course.”
However, Onesmus Towett, the director of criminal investigations (DCI) for Laikipia County, has denied reports that Gitobu may have been killed.
According to Towett, an investigation has been launched and the death was unexpected.
On Wednesday at nine o’clock, there will be an autopsy.
Towett has advised lawmakers to wait until the police investigation is complete before spreading rumors about the incident.
Gitobu, noting a deadlock over allegations of manipulation, permitted the re-tallying of Kirinyaga gubernatorial results in the Gichugu constituency on August 10.
Independent candidate Wangui Ngirici made the request, claiming that the returning officer had rigged the election in Anne Waiguru’s favor.
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