Wafula Wanyonyi Chebukati, the former chairman of Kenya's Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), passed away on 21 February 2025 in Nairobi at the age of 63. His tenure at the helm of the electoral body was marked by significant achievements and controversies that have left an indelible mark on Kenya's democratic landscape.
Early Life and Career
Born on 22 December 1961, Chebukati pursued a career in law, establishing himself as a reputable legal practitioner before venturing into public service. His legal expertise laid a strong foundation for his subsequent roles in Kenya's electoral processes.
Appointment as IEBC Chairman
In January 2017, President Uhuru Kenyatta appointed Chebukati as the chairman of the IEBC. His appointment came at a critical time when the commission was preparing for the general elections scheduled for later that year. Chebukati's leadership was immediately put to the test during these elections, which became a focal point of national and international attention.
The 2017 General Elections
The 2017 general elections were fraught with challenges. The Supreme Court annulled the initial presidential election results, citing irregularities and illegalities, and ordered a rerun. This unprecedented decision placed the IEBC under intense scrutiny. Chebukati faced criticism from various quarters regarding the commission's preparedness and the integrity of the electoral process. Despite these challenges, he oversaw the repeat election, the outcome of which was upheld by the Supreme Court.
The 2022 General Elections and Internal Disputes
The 2022 general elections further highlighted divisions within the IEBC. Following the declaration of William Ruto as President-elect, four commissioners—Vice Chairperson Juliana Cherera, Francis Wanderi, Irene Masit, and Justus Nyang'aya—publicly disputed the results, citing a lack of transparency in the final tallying process. This public disagreement exposed deep-seated rifts within the commission and raised questions about its internal cohesion and decision-making processes. The dissenting commissioners later recanted their initial stance, but the episode underscored the challenges Chebukati faced in maintaining unity within the IEBC.
Controversies and Criticisms
Throughout his tenure, Chebukati was a polarising figure. Supporters lauded his commitment to upholding the electoral process amidst immense pressure, while critics accused him of partisanship and questioned his impartiality. The public fallout among commissioners during the 2022 elections, coupled with allegations of external interference, fuelled debates about the IEBC's independence under his leadership. Despite these controversies, Chebukati completed his six-year term in January 2023, becoming the first IEBC chairman to do so since the commission's establishment.
Legacy
Wafula Chebukati's legacy is a complex tapestry of resilience in the face of adversity and contentious decision-making. His tenure highlighted the intricate challenges of managing electoral processes in a deeply divided political environment. As Kenya reflects on his contributions, discussions about electoral reforms, institutional independence, and the importance of cohesive leadership within the IEBC continue to resonate.