Government says no political activities will be allowed at Chebukati’s burial in Kiminini

Government says no political activities will be allowed at Chebukati’s burial in Kiminini

Chebukati’s widow, Mary, along with their sons and other relatives, thanked the government for its support in the funeral and burial arrangements.

The government has warned against political activities at the burial of former Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) chairman Wafula Chebukati, which will take place today (Saturday) at his Sabata home in Kiminini, Trans Nzoia County.

Trans Nzoia County Commissioner Gideon Oyagi stated that no one should wear political party regalia or engage in disruptive behaviour.

He said security measures were in place to ensure a peaceful ceremony.

“Let leaders talk to their supporters, as this will not be a political event. There will be no cheering of speakers,” Oyagi said after the arrival of Chebukati’s body in Kitale.

The body, received at the Kitale airstrip by family members, relatives, and Kwanza MP Ferdinand Wanyonyi, was taken to his father’s home in Kambi Nairobi for an overnight stay before being moved to his residence in Kiminini on Friday.

Oyagi emphasised that security agencies had been deployed to maintain order.

“Let us exercise restraint. Do not fall for incitement,” he cautioned.

He was accompanied by members of the County security committee.

Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya had earlier warned that some politicians were mobilising people to cause chaos at the funeral. He urged security agencies to act against such moves.

President Ruto is expected to attend the burial.

Peace and respect

MP Wanyonyi called for peace and respect, insisting that there would be no room for disorder or political exploitation.

“Chebukati worked tirelessly for Kenya. I urge those attending to show respect and sympathy to his family,” he said.

The family has expressed distress over online attacks against their departed kin, particularly on social media. Chebukati’s parents, siblings, and children have urged Kenyans to stop spreading hate speech and mockery, saying such remarks have tarnished his image.

His father, John Chebukati, lamented the criticism.

“People are saying many things about him. It’s only after you die that you know your enemies and friends. It has been painful to the family.”

His brother, Daniel Chebukati, echoed the sentiments.

“The pain is double for the family. We have lost a brother, and now Kenyans are crucifying him. The person they are condemning is innocent. He is being judged for sins he never committed. This is a person we know well. He is clean,” he said.

Chebukati’s widow, Mary, along with their sons and other relatives, thanked the government for its support in the funeral and burial arrangements.

“My husband led a quiet, respectful life, and we will be happy if we bury him in peace and respect,” she said.

Chebukati, who completed his six-year tenure as IEBC chairman on January 17, 2023, died in Nairobi on February 21, 2025, while undergoing treatment. He was aged 63.

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