National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula has called on the newly appointed Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) team to immediately begin the process of restoring public confidence in Kenya’s electoral system. Addressing the commissioners, led by Chairperson Erastus Ethukon, during a consultative meeting on Wednesday, Wetang’ula stressed the importance of impartiality, professionalism, and constitutional fidelity.
“Kenyans expect nothing short of impartiality, integrity, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to your constitutional mandate,” Wetang’ula said. “You must be like Caesar’s wife beyond reproach.”
The Speaker was accompanied by key members of the Parliamentary leadership and several legislators, signaling strong institutional backing for the Commission. He pledged Parliament’s readiness to support electoral reforms through legislative initiatives and secure budgetary allocations to facilitate the Commission’s operations.
“We will back any proposals aimed at ensuring continuous funding for the IEBC to eliminate the budget shortfalls that have plagued its operations in the past,” he added.
Wetang’ula emphasized that the credibility of elections is foundational to Kenya’s democratic governance and political stability. He urged the Commission to act swiftly and decisively to affirm its independence and build trust among Kenyans ahead of upcoming by-elections and the 2027 General Election.
Echoing the Speaker’s sentiments, National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah said the IEBC must start laying the foundation for credible electoral processes now.
“The Commission must lay the groundwork now. It is a cornerstone of democracy, and Kenyans are watching,” Ichung’wah said, underscoring the need for early preparations and transparency.
Wetang’ula also stressed the importance of stakeholder engagement, warning that failure to consult widely could lead to post-election disputes and further erode public trust in the electoral process.
The meeting marked the beginning of a new chapter for the IEBC, which has been under pressure to reform and redeem its image following past controversies. As Kenya looks ahead to future elections, all eyes will be on the Commission to deliver a transparent and credible process.
