IEBC selection panel urged to prioritise public interest, resist undue influence
The CJ highlighted the importance of their role in strengthening Kenya’s democracy and safeguarding the credibility of future elections.
The newly sworn-in members of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) selection panel have been urged to demonstrate the highest levels of integrity, professionalism, and dedication to constitutional principles in their work.
The nine members are Lindah Gakii Kiome, Adams Oloo, James Evans Misati, Nicodemus Kipchirchir Bore, Koki Muli Grignon, Carolene Kituku, Tanui Andrew Kipkoech, Nelson Makanda and Fatuma Saman.
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The panel will nominate people for appointment as the chairperson and members of the IEBC.
Speaking during their swearing-in ceremony at Supreme Court Buildings on Monday, Chief Justice Martha Koome called on the panel to prioritise public interest and resist undue influence.
“Your oath of office is not a mere formality; it is a pledge of service to the people of Kenya. It demands that you act with unwavering integrity, resisting any influence that seeks to compromise the credibility of this process. Your guiding principle must be merit, and merit alone,” she said.
Koome reminded the panel’s members of their critical duty to select leaders of untainted credibility who will inspire trust in the electoral system. She also urged all institutions involved in the recruitment process, including Parliament, political actors and civil society to ensure transparency and speed in their engagements.
“Today, you step into a role that carries immense national responsibility. The integrity, independence, and credibility of the IEBC start with you. The decisions you make will shape not just the 2027 elections, but the future of our democracy,” Koome said.
Elections credibility
The CJ highlighted the importance of their role in strengthening Kenya’s democracy and safeguarding the credibility of future elections.
“The responsibility you assume today is not just a legal function — it is a solemn call to serve the people of Kenya and safeguard the integrity of our democracy,” Koome said.
She highlighted the centrality of the IEBC to the nation’s stability.
“The credibility of elections defines the stability of a nation, and history has shown us that when elections are free, fair, and transparent, our country flourishes. However, when they are mismanaged, the consequences are severe, threatening national unity and public trust.”
Koome noted that the prolonged absence of commissioners since January 2023 had stalled critical functions such as boundary delimitation, voter registration, and by-elections, leaving some constituencies and wards without representation.
“This is not just an administrative challenge — it is a democratic disruption,” she remarked, emphasising that such situations must never recur.
She urged the selection panel to rise to the occasion with honour and patriotism.
“Let this process be a beacon of integrity, setting a standard for all institutions to follow. May your work strengthen our democracy, uphold the rule of law, and inspire confidence in the institutions that serve the people of Kenya,” she said.
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