Ruto appoints new IEBC selection panel, revokes 2023 appointments

President William Ruto has unveiled a new selection panel tasked with recruiting nominees for the positions of Chairperson and Members of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC). The newly appointed members include Prof. Adams Oloo, Dr. Nelson Makanda, Fatuma Saman, Amb. Koki Muli, Evans Misati, Nicodemus Bore Kipchirchir, Andrew Tanui Kipkoech, Carolene Kituku, and Linda Kiome Gakii.

In a gazette notice dated January 27, 2025, the President revoked the appointments of the previous panel members who were selected in 2023. This move comes amid mounting pressure on the government to expedite the reconstitution of the IEBC, with critics accusing President Ruto of delaying reforms and interfering with independent institutions.

The delay in establishing the IEBC has sparked widespread criticism from opposition leaders and political stakeholders. Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka expressed concerns over the ongoing issues within the IEBC Secretariat, including alleged procurement irregularities.

“On Monday, we hope to issue a clear statement regarding the current situation. In the meantime, there are troubling activities within the IEBC Secretariat, such as procurement issues. They are testing the waters,” Musyoka stated over the weekend.

Jubilee Party Secretary General Jeremiah Kioni suggested that the timely formation of the IEBC could influence the outcome of the 2027 general elections, potentially favoring Kalonzo Musyoka’s bid for the presidency.

Eugene Wamalwa, leader of DAP-Kenya, also criticized the government for the prolonged delay in reconstituting the IEBC, nearly four years after the current administration took office. Wamalwa emphasized the need for urgency in restoring the commission to ensure electoral integrity.

The High Court recently cleared the way for President Ruto to appoint the new panel after dismissing a petition challenging the constitutionality of the selection process. Kiambu High Court Judge Dola Chepkwony ruled that the petitioner, Bonface Njogu, failed to provide sufficient evidence to support claims that persons living with disabilities were excluded from the process.

Additionally, Justice Chepkwony dismissed a separate petition challenging Azimio’s nomination process, stating that allegations of a non-competitive and non-transparent recruitment exercise lacked substantiation.

The reconstitution of the IEBC is seen as a critical step toward ensuring credible and transparent elections in Kenya. As the new selection panel begins its work, all eyes will be on the government to deliver a timely and inclusive process that upholds the principles of democracy and fairness.