Chief Justice Martha Hume has called for a quick and transparent selection process for the next chairperson and members of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC). Speaking at the swearing-in ceremony of the nine-member selection panel at the Supreme Court in Nairobi on Monday January 27, Ms.
Hume made the following appeal. The credibility of elections determines the stability of a nation. “When elections are free and fair, our country thrives; when elections are not fair, the consequences are a serious threat to national unity and public confidence.
That is why your task is of paramount importance to Kenyans.” The new committee comprising Chiome Linda Gakii, Prof. Adams Olu, James Evans Misati, Nicodemus Kipchirchir Bole, Ambassador Koki Muri Grignon, Caroline Kituku, Tanui Andrew Kipkoech, Dr. Nelson Makanda and Fatuma Samang, to oversee the recruitment of candidates for the chairmanship and committee members. The appointments followed a High Court ruling on Friday January 24, 2025, which dismissed a petition challenging the formation of the commission.
The court ruled that the commission could continue despite claims that persons with disabilities were excluded. The court also denied another motion challenging Azimio’s nomination process, noting that allegations of a non-competitive hiring process were not substantiated.
Ms. Coombe noted the importance of choosing individuals who are true to impartiality and the Constitution and whose credibility is not tarnished.
She warned that the credibility of the IEBC is vital to the stability of the country. The IEBC is the guardian of electoral integrity. “The composition of the IEBC must reflect the highest standards of professionalism and credibility as the IEBC has no commissioner since January 2023, creating a vacuum in the electoral process.
Key functions such as boundary demarcation, voter registration and organizing by-elections have been postponed. Commissioner Kume expressed concern over the delays and emphasized that the new commissioner must be independent and free from political influence.
Receive updates Subscribe to our newsletter “We remain steadfast in our commitment to upholding the rule of law,” she said, adding that “all Kenyans have the right to go to court on matters of constitutional importance, but this right cannot be used to delay government or serve narrow political interests. It should not be used as a weapon to stall government or to serve narrow political gains,” she added.
Ms. Koum called on stakeholders involved in the recruitment process, including Parliament, politicians, civil society and the general public, to ensure that the process is speedy, fair and transparent.
Strong institutions are the foundation of democracy. The IEBC, like all constitutional commissions, must be allowed to function independently and without political interference.
Our country must remain committed to ensuring that institutions serve the people and not personal interests.”
