President William Ruto has formally received the report on the recruitment of nominees for the positions of Chairperson and Commissioners of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), marking a significant step toward reconstituting the country’s electoral body.
The report was presented to the Head of State at State House, Nairobi, by the IEBC Selection Panel led by Dr. Nelson Makanda, following the conclusion of a comprehensive vetting and interview process.
President Ruto commended the panel for what he termed “commendable and diligent work” in executing their mandate.
“This morning, I received the report on the recruitment of nominees for the positions of Chairperson and Members of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) from the IEBC Selection Panel at State House, Nairobi,” he said.
The President affirmed his commitment to upholding constitutional procedures, stating that he will nominate the shortlisted candidates and forward their names to the National Assembly for vetting and approval.
“In accordance with the provisions of the IEBC Act, I will nominate and transmit the names to the National Assembly in full fidelity to the constitutional principles that guide our system of governance,” he noted.
President Ruto underscored the urgency of restoring the IEBC’s operational capacity, citing its pivotal role in safeguarding democratic processes and ensuring timely, transparent electoral planning.
“The restoration of a fully functional and credible electoral commission is essential to the consolidation of our democracy and the rule of law,” he added.
The submission of the report follows the successful conclusion of a month-long interview process. The IEBC Selection Panel wrapped up the interviews for the chairperson position on March 26, having assessed 11 candidates including former Judiciary Chief Registrar Anne Amadi and ex-CIC Chairperson Charles Nyachae.
Other candidates interviewed for the top post included Saul Simiyu Wasilwa, Abdulqadir Lorot Ramadhan, Joy Mdivo, Edward Katama Ngeywa, Erastus Edung Ethekon, Francis Kakai Kissinger, Jacob Ngwele Muvengei, Lilian Wanjiku Manegene, and Robert Akumu Asembo.
