The process of reconstituting Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission commenced on Monday marking a pivotal moment for the nation’s democratic framework.
The selection panel, led by Dr. Nelson Makanda, began interviewing candidates for the positions of chairperson and commissioners at the Edge Convention Centre within the College of Insurance in Nairobi. The initiative aims to fill the void left by the previous commissioners, whose terms concluded in January 2023.
Among the candidates interviewed on day1 were former East African Court judge Charles Nyachae, former Chief Registrar of the Judiciary Anne Amadi, Abdulqadir Lorot H. Ramadhan, and Edward Katama Ngeywa.
Notably, some of these individuals have close affiliations with prominent political figures, raising concerns about potential biases in the selection process. For instance, Charles Nyachae has been linked to President William Ruto’s inner circle, while Anne Amadi’s past roles have positioned her within influential networks.
The inclusion of such candidates has sparked apprehension among civil society organizations and political analysts. They argue that appointing individuals with perceived political leanings could compromise the IEBC’s independence. Political analyst Javas Bigambo remarked, “The essence of an independent electoral body is nullified when its leadership is drawn from partisan backgrounds. This not only erodes public trust but also jeopardizes the credibility of future elections.”
The selection panel received a staggering 1,356 applications for both the chairperson and commissioner positions. However, the shortlisting process has been met with criticism due to the perceived recycling of familiar faces, some of whom have contentious pasts. Lawyer Willis Otieno expressed his concerns, stating, “Recycling individuals who have previously been in public service without exemplary records is a disservice to the nation. We need fresh faces with unblemished integrity to steer our electoral processes.”
This sentiment is echoed by sections of the civil society, who have warned against any attempts to influence the selection process. They emphasize that the reconstitution of the IEBC is crucial for the resumption of key activities, including the conduct of by-elections and the delimitation of boundaries.
Chief Justice Martha Koome has underscored the importance of integrity and transparency in the recruitment process. During the swearing-in ceremony of the selection panel, she emphasized that the panel’s role transcends legal obligations, serving as a safeguard for the country’s democracy.
“Your guiding principle must be merit, and merit alone. The individuals you select must inspire confidence in the electoral system and uphold the values of transparency, accountability, and inclusivity.”
Legal expert PLO Lumumba also weighed in, highlighting the need for a paradigm shift in the selection process.
“Kenya’s electoral integrity hinges on the impartiality of its commissioners. It’s imperative that the selection process is devoid of political patronage and focuses solely on competence and integrity,”he told Kurunzi News.
The delay in reconstituting the IEBC has not only stalled electoral activities but has also heightened political tensions. Saboti MP Caleb Amisi issued a stern warning, calling for the establishment of a fully functional and well-funded IEBC by February 2025 to avert nationwide protests. He asserted, “We must protect Kenya’s hegemony as a bastion of democracy within the African continent. Kenya needs a Renaissance!”
This urgency is shared by opposition leaders, including Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, who urged stakeholders to prioritize the reconstitution of the IEBC. He emphasized setting aside personal interests for the greater good of the nation, warning of dire consequences if the issue remains unresolved.
As the interviews progress, the selection panel faces the monumental task of balancing experience with integrity. The public’s confidence in the electoral process hinges on the appointment of commissioners who are not only competent but also above reproach. Constitutional lawyer Bobby Mkangi noted, “The credibility of the next election cycle is intrinsically linked to the integrity of the IEBC commissioners. The selection panel must rise above external pressures and deliver a team that Kenyans can trust.”
The panel has until 25 April to finalize the recruitment process. Upon completion, they will submit two names for the chairperson position and nine for commissioner positions to President Ruto. The president will then nominate one person as chairperson and six as commissioners, whose names will be forwarded to the National Assembly for vetting and approval before formal appointments are made.
The ongoing IEBC selection process is a litmus test for Kenya’s commitment to democratic principles. The emphasis must be on appointing individuals of unquestionable integrity to restore public trust and ensure the credibility of future elections. As the nation watches closely, the selection panel’s decisions will undoubtedly shape the trajectory of Kenya’s democratic journey.
