A section of Kenya Kwanza Members of Parliament (MPs) have defended the new Independent Electoral and Boundaries (IEBC) commissioners.
Speaking on Sunday May 11, 2025 at Nandi Hills Stadium, Nandi County during the interdenominational funds drive, the leaders said that President William Ruto’s administration is free from tribal and divisive politics and considers marginalised groups.
National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichungwa said that President Ruto delivered on his mandate in appointment of Dr Erastus Ethekon as the chair of IEBC.
Other IEBC commissioners include former registrar of political parties Ann Nderitu, Moses Mukhwana, Mary Karen Sorobit, Hassan Noor Hassan, Francis Odhiambo Oduol and Fahima Araphat Abdullah pending national assembly approval.
“We have those who looked down upon Dr Ethakon because he comes from a marginalised community in Kenya and that is being discriminatory and inconsiderate. Those who were appointed have outstanding records of competence in various capacities they were serving,” he stated.
He explained that the IEBC selection committee conducted rigorous interviews and shortlisted the successful candidates and President Ruto appointed the commissioners as legally mandated.
“The Bomas consortium of parties resolution on the reconstitution of IEBC was followed and the selection panel was well represented, and the critics including former vice President Kalonzo Musyoka cannot purport to deny the truth. They should not drag the electoral body into dirty and divisive politics, ” he cautioned.
Among the leaders in attendance of the mega fundraiser include MPs Silvanus Osoro (South Mugirango), Didmas Barasa (Kimilili), Mwengi Mutuse (Kibwesi West), Nandi Women Rep Cynthia Muge, Samuel Chepkonga (Ainabkoi), Nandi Deputy Governor Dr Yulita Cheruiyot, Mark Nyamita (Uriri) and a host of MCAs.
MP Barasa said that the appointment of the IEBC commissioners was consultative and due legal process was followed and there is no law that demands that the president should further consult politicians before forwarding the names of finalists to parliament.
“The reconstitution of IEBC was put to litigation by those who wanted their friends to be appointed and it took the government over two years to conclude the process. The opposition leaders now should stop their circus, embark on their campaigns ahead of 2027 election, Kenyans will make their decisions through a democratic process,” said MP Barasa.
At the same time, MP Mutuse said there is no time for politicking at the expense of the electorates lacking representations in the county and national assembly.
“The push for having new IEBC commissioners is to conduct by-elections and the parliament will approve them, and thereafter announce the schedule of mini elections for parliamentary and wards. We have constituents that need MCAs and members of Parliament,” he affirmed.
