Ruto leads tributes as Kenyans mourn former IEBC Chair Wafula Chebukati

President William Ruto on Friday led Kenyans in mourning the loss of the former Chairperson of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) Wafula Chebukati.

Chebukati passed away on Thursday while undergoing treatment at a Nairobi hospital.

President Ruto on Friday paid tribute to the former IEBC Chair, eulogising him as a principled and diligent leader who served the nation with integrity.

"Chebukati was a principled leader. His death is a great loss to our country. His death is a great loss to our country," he said.

He extended his thoughts and prayers to Chebukati's family and friends, emphasising the impact of his leadership on the nation.

Former President Uhuru Kenyatta also paid tribute to the late Chebukati praising him for his tenure in office.

“Throughout his time in office, he played a pivotal role in shaping our nation's electoral landscape, often navigating intricate challenges with remarkable resilience,” he said.

Speaker of the National Assembly, Moses Wetang'ula, remembered Chebukati as "an eminent jurist and a steadfast defender of the rule of law."

He praised him for his remarkable courage and unwavering commitment to justice during his tenure.

"His legacy of integrity and service will continue to inspire future generations," Wetang'ula added.

Speaker of the Senate Amason Kingi also expressed his condolence.

"Mr. Chebukati oversaw fair and transparent elections that have continued to promote the rule of law and governance in Kenya. May his soul rest in peace,” he stated.

Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi shared a heartfelt tribute eulogizing the late IEBC Chair as a man of integrity and conviction, he dedicated his life to upholding democracy.

“He navigated challenging moments with courage, fairness, and an unshakable commitment to transparency,” he said.

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Leader of Majority in the National Assembly Kimani Ichung’wah also remembered Chebukati’s unwavering dedication. He highlighted Chebukati's role as a guardian of free and fair elections, emphasizing his respect for the will of the people.

"His service transcended duty; it was a profound contribution to the stability and progress of our nation,” Ichung’wah added.

Cabinet Secretary for Interior, Kipchumba Murkomen, echoed these sentiments, saying "Wafula Chebukati will be remembered for his principled leadership and fidelity to the Constitution."

He recognised Chebukati's pivotal role in steering the IEBC through two significant elections, highlighting his professional dedication.

"A loss to the family, loss to many, loss to us. Fare thee well my brother," Boni Khalwale, Majority Whip at the Senate.

Cabinet Secretary for Environment Aden Duale expressed his condolences, saying Chebukati’s journey was marked by courage and a steadfast commitment to the democratic process.

It is with heavy hearts that we learn of the passing of Former IEBC Chairman Wafula Chebukati.

His journey was marked by courage, firmness, fidelity to the law steadfastness and a commitment to the democratic process.

Today, we grieve the loss of a leader who stood firm in… pic.twitter.com/EUVrxQfkUS

— Hon. Aden Duale, EGH (@HonAdenDuale) February 21, 2025

"His leadership in overseeing the electoral process shaped the country's governance," the Cabinet Secretary for Public Service Justin Muturi.

He pointed out that Chebukati's contributions to Kenya's electoral system would not be forgotten.

Hussein Marjan, the IEBC Chief Executive Officer, expressed the commission's sorrow, stating, "The Commission is greatly saddened and mourns the untimely demise of its former Chairman."

He noted Chebukati's remarkable tenure, which began on January 17, 2017, and marked a historic achievement as the first IEBC Chair to complete a six-year term.

Marjan highlighted that Chebukati oversaw two general elections and a fresh presidential election, affirming his dedication to upholding the rule of law.

The IEBC CEO noted that during his leadership, Chebukati’s efforts were recognised internationally, leading to the IEBC winning the Election Management Award and being a runner-up for the Electoral Ergonomic Award at the 19th International Electoral Awards Ceremony in Lisbon in 2023.

"He was a leader full of humour and someone who understood the sensitivity of his office,” Marjan added.

The Council of Governors, led by Chairperson Ahmed Abdullahi, joined in mourning Chebukati's passing, stating his contributions to governance and electoral integrity are vital to Kenya's democratic discourse.

"Chebukati will be remembered for his tenure at the IEBC, during which he oversaw key electoral processes,” he said.

Beyond his service in Kenya, Chebukati was recognised on the international stage as the President of the General Assembly of the Association of African Election Authorities (AAEA).

Abdullahi extended condolences to CPA Mary Chebukati, Chairperson of the Commission on Revenue Allocation who is also his wife.

"During this difficult time, we stand in solidarity with them and pray for strength and comfort,” he added.

Kirinyaga Governor Ann Wiguru also extended her condolences.

"His leadership was instrumental in strengthening Kenya's democratic processes and upholding the integrity of our electoral system," she said.

Rarienda MP Otiende Amollo reflected on their professional relationship.

"Though we had serious differences of opinion, we remained courteous and respectful," he said.

Chebukati died aged 63 years old, having been born on December 22, 1961.

He served as the IEBC Chair from January 2017 until January 2023, successfully overseeing three critical elections during a challenging period for the nation.

Beyond his role in the IEBC, Chebukati was a lawyer with 37 years of experience, having founded his law firm, Cootow & Associate Advocates, in 2006.

He also briefly ventured into politics, contesting the Saboti Constituency parliamentary seat in 2007.

His contributions to the legal profession and public service earned him the Elder of the Order of the Golden Heart (EGH) award, a significant honour from the Kenyan government.