The Kenya Supreme Court on Friday ruled President Uhuru Kenyatta's election win invalid, citing irregularities. The Supreme Court ordered a new poll within 60 days. The August election results caused protests and violence that killed at least 28 people.
The court ruling was broadcasted on national television and sets up an entirely new race for the presidency between Kenyatta and opponent Raila Odinga.
According to Reuters, Judge David Maraga announced the Supreme Court's decision, which was backed by four of the six judges. Maraga said the court had declared Kenyatta's victory "invalid, null and void." More details will be released within 21 days.
Maraga explained that the election board "failed, neglected or refused to conduct the presidential election in a manner consistent with the dictates of the constitution.”
In August, former U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry visited Kenya to assure the people that the election was free and fair after hacking attempts were foiled. While Odinga's supporters cheered and paraded in the streets of Kenya after the announcement of the court ruling, Kenyatta asked for calm and respect for the decision.
Kenya has a history of disputed votes. In 2007, Odinga challenged the poll after being declared loser. The poll was followed by weeks of bloodshed that killed more than 1,200 people.