Fresh Appointments to Oversee Electoral Reforms
President William Ruto has appointed members of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) selection panel tasked with identifying candidates for the roles of Chairperson and Commissioners.
The announcement was made through a gazette notice dated January 27, 2025, marking a significant step in the electoral reform process.
The newly appointed panel members include:
- Prof. Adams Oloo
- Dr. Nelson Makanda
- Fatuma Saman
- Amb. Koki Muli
- Evans Misati
- Nicodemus Bore Kipchirchir
- Andrew Tanui Kipkoech
- Carolene Kituku
- Linda Kiome Gakii
This move also saw the revocation of appointments made to the IEBC selection panel in 2023.
Political Reactions and Growing Pressure
The appointment comes amidst mounting criticism of the president’s perceived delays in reconstituting the IEBC. Opposition leaders argue that the delays compromise the integrity of Kenya’s electoral system.
Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka expressed concerns over the transparency of ongoing activities within the IEBC Secretariat. “There are troubling issues, such as procurement irregularities, that need immediate attention,” Musyoka noted.
Jeremiah Kioni, Jubilee Party Secretary-General, suggested that timely reconstitution of the IEBC could pave the way for Kalonzo Musyoka to win the presidency in the 2027 elections. Similarly, DAP-Kenya Party Leader Eugene Wamalwa criticized the government for nearly four years of inaction on IEBC reforms.
Court Clears Path for Appointments
The High Court recently dismissed a legal challenge that had delayed the appointments. A petition filed by Bonface Njogu alleging exclusion of persons living with disabilities in the selection process was rejected. Justice Dola Chepkwony ruled that the petitioner failed to provide sufficient evidence of discrimination.
Additionally, a separate petition claiming irregularities in Azimio’s nomination process was also dismissed. The court concluded that allegations of a lack of competitive recruitment within the coalition could not be substantiated.
What’s Next for the IEBC?
As the panel begins its work, expectations are high for transparent and efficient recruitment of IEBC leadership. Kenyans are keen to see reforms that restore public trust in the electoral system and ensure free, fair, and credible elections.
