The High Court has dealt independent candidates a major blow after declining to issue orders, allowing them to form any coalition ahead of the August general election.

The court through Justice Anthony Mrima ruled there would be a constitutional crisis if it grants the orders the candidates were seeking.

Mrima assured the petitioners they will suffer no prejudice.

The judge also said it is the court’s duty to ensure it averts a constitutional crisis in the matter.

"It's the duty of the court to avoid a constitutional crisis. In this matter, public interest tilts in favour of the respondents," Mrima said.

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The court also noted the electoral process will be held in limbo and the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) will be rendered incapable of conducting a free, fair and credible election.

However, the High Court admitted that the case raises matters that need to be addressed.

A group of independent candidates under the Free Kenya Initiative umbrella petitioned the High Court to let them form a coalition ahead of the August general elections.

Free Kenya Initiative prayed that the court declares unconstitutional, sections of the General Elections Regulations barring independent candidates from forming coalitions.