President William Ruto is expected to make a crucial political move.
By nominating Kenya’s next Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) Chairperson and commissioners.
Following the official submission of the final list from the Selection Panel.
This pivotal step is set to shape the country’s electoral landscape ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The report, presented on May 6, 2025, at State House Nairobi, outlines the shortlisted candidates for the positions of Chairperson and Commissioners of the IEBC.
Background: The Need for IEBC Reconstitution
The IEBC has been operating without a full commission since early 2023, following the retirement of former Chairperson Wafula Chebukati and the departure of several commissioners.
This vacancy has raised concerns about the commission’s capacity to oversee upcoming electoral processes, including the 2027 General Election.
Selection Panel’s Mandate and Process
Appointed on January 27, 2025, the IEBC Selection Panel, chaired by Dr. Nelson Makanda, was tasked with identifying suitable candidates to fill the vacant positions.
The panel conducted interviews for the Chairperson role on March 26, 2025, assessing 11 candidates.
Including former Judiciary Chief Registrar Anne Amadi and former Commission for the Implementation of the Constitution Chairperson Charles Nyachae.
Subsequently, interviews for Commissioner positions commenced on March 27 and concluded on April 25, 2025.
Out of 111 shortlisted candidates, 106 appeared before the panel.
President Ruto’s Commitment to Constitutional Procedures
Upon receiving the report, President Ruto commended the panel for its diligent work and affirmed his commitment to upholding constitutional provisions in the nomination process.
This morning, I received the report on the recruitment of nominees for the positions of Chairperson and Members of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) from the IEBC Selection Panel, State House Nairobi.
I commend the panel, chaired by Dr Nelson Makanda,… pic.twitter.com/WPIA5oY5ED
— William Samoei Ruto, PhD (@WilliamsRuto) May 6, 2025
The President is expected to nominate one individual for the Chairperson position and six for Commissioner roles.
These nominations will be forwarded to Parliament for vetting and approval.
If Parliament approves the nominees, the President will then formally appoint them to their respective positions.
Implications for Kenya’s Electoral Landscape
The reconstitution of the IEBC is pivotal for restoring public confidence in the electoral process and ensuring the commission’s readiness for future elections.
A fully functional IEBC is essential for upholding democratic principles and facilitating transparent electoral processes.
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