Examining the Implications of Gachagua’s Ouster and the Urgent Need for a Functional IEBC in Safeguarding Kenya’s Democracy
The Kenyan diaspora, under the group Diasporians Against Corruption in Kenya (DACK), has raised alarms over recent political moves they believe threaten the nation’s democratic fabric. In a firm statement, the group condemned what they perceive as “unconstitutional and undemocratic” actions, warning that such decisions could push Kenya into a politically unstable path.
Concerns Over Gachagua’s Swift Ouster
DACK Chairperson Ben Ateku particularly criticized the dramatic removal of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, which took place in less than a week. He asserted that Gachagua’s ouster was a politically motivated move by the Kenya Kwanza government aimed at consolidating power within the ruling party. According to Ateku, the decision was driven by Gachagua’s open dissent and intolerance of certain actions within the administration, positioning him as a threat to the party’s unity.
Ateku emphasized that the abrupt removal raised serious questions about political motives and governance. “The deputy had been voicing dissenting views within the ruling party, making his removal more of a power play than a democratic decision,” he stated. DACK warned that such actions signal an unhealthy pursuit of political control and could significantly damage public trust in the country’s democratic institutions.
IEBC Reforms and Term Limits Under Scrutiny
Alongside concerns over Gachagua’s ouster, DACK has also questioned the prolonged delay in appointing a new Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC). The group believes the government’s failure to form a functional electoral body since the expiration of the former IEBC Chairperson Wafula Chebukati’s term in January is a calculated ploy to stall democratic processes.
Ateku noted that the absence of a new IEBC could provide the ruling party with opportunities to extend their control, potentially manipulating future elections and prolonging their stay in power. “This delay in forming a new commission seems like an intentional strategy to interfere with democracy and potentially extend term limits,” DACK warned.
The IEBC has remained dysfunctional for over a year, and the lack of progress in filling the vacancies raises concerns about the integrity of future electoral processes. DACK insists that the government must expedite the formation of a new commission to ensure transparency in upcoming elections and safeguard the nation’s democratic systems.
A Call for Democratic Integrity
DACK urged President Ruto and his administration to focus on upholding democratic principles rather than consolidating political power. The group warned that further actions aimed at weakening institutions like the IEBC, or extending term limits, could have long-term negative consequences on Kenya’s political stability.
Ateku and the DACK leadership are calling for the protection of Kenya’s democratic framework, which has been key to the country’s governance since the adoption of the 2010 Constitution. They insist that political power plays should not compromise the rule of law and that all leaders should respect the nation’s democratic processes and term limits.
With ongoing concerns surrounding political shifts, the delay in appointing a new IEBC, and potential discussions about extending presidential term limits, the Kenyan diaspora is voicing its concerns. DACK’s message to President Ruto is clear: preserve the democratic principles that have guided Kenya’s growth, avoid unconstitutional actions, and ensure that the country remains on a path of stability and fair governance.
