Chief Justice Martha Koome has called on the newly appointed members of the selection panel responsible for recruiting the Chairperson and Members of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to resist undue pressure, political influence, and partisan interests.
Speaking during their swearing-in ceremony on Monday January 27, 2025, at the Supreme Court, Justice Koome underscored the importance of prioritizing public interest in their work.
“You must resist any pressure, influence, or partisan interests that seek to derail this process,” she said.
“The oath you have taken today is a solemn pledge to serve Kenya with unwavering commitment to the rule of law and the Constitution. The decisions you make will shape not just the 2027 elections but the future of our democracy.”
She urged the panel members to approach their task with integrity, patriotism, and a deep sense of duty, emphasizing that their conduct should set a benchmark for public institutions.
“Let this process be a beacon of integrity, setting a standard for all institutions to follow,” Koome stated. “I wish you wisdom, courage, and success in this noble endeavor. May your work strengthen our democracy, uphold the rule of law, and inspire confidence in the institutions that serve the people of Kenya.”
President William Ruto officially appointed the members of the IEBC selection panel earlier in the week, paving the way for their swearing-in and commencement of duties. The appointees are Prof. Adams Oloo, Dr. Nelson Makanda, Fatuma Saman, Amb. Koki Muli, Evans Misati, Nicodemus Bore Kipchirchir, Andrew Tanui Kipkoech, Carolene Kituku, and Linda Kiome Gakii.
In a gazette notice dated January 27, 2025, the President also revoked the appointment of members of a previous IEBC selection panel that had been constituted in 2023.
The formation of the new panel comes amid mounting political and public pressure for swift action in establishing an independent IEBC ahead of the 2027 elections. Critics, including opposition leaders, have accused the President of interfering with independent institutions and stalling electoral reforms.
Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka hinted at ongoing irregularities within the IEBC Secretariat, alleging procurement malpractices and vowing to address the matter soon.
“In the meantime, within the IEBC Secretariat itself, there are terrible things going on, like procurement. They are testing the grounds,” Musyoka said over the weekend.
Meanwhile, Jubilee Secretary General Jeremiah Kioni argued that setting up the IEBC on time would bolster Kalonzo’s chances of winning the presidency in 2027.
