President William Ruto has officially received the report on the recruitment of nominees for the Chairperson and Members of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), marking a significant milestone in the reconstitution of the electoral body.
The report was handed over on Tuesday at State House, Nairobi, by the IEBC Selection Panel led by Dr. Nelson Makanda. The panel concluded its month-long interviews on April 25, after a rigorous vetting process aimed at identifying competent individuals to steer the commission ahead of upcoming electoral events.
In a statement, President Ruto commended the panel for its diligence and professionalism. “This morning, I received the report on the recruitment of nominees for the positions of Chairperson and Members of the IEBC from the Selection Panel. I commend the panel, chaired by Dr. Nelson Makanda, for their diligent and commendable work,” said the President.
He assured the nation that he would act in full adherence to the IEBC Act and the Constitution, pledging to forward the names of the nominees to the National Assembly for vetting and approval. “In accordance with the provisions of the IEBC Act, I will nominate and transmit the names to the National Assembly in full fidelity to the constitutional principles that guide our system of governance,” Ruto affirmed.
The selection panel concluded interviews for the chairperson position on March 26, having interviewed 11 candidates. Notable among them were former Judiciary Chief Registrar Anne Amadi and former CIC Chairperson Charles Nyachae. Other candidates included Joy Mdivo, Edward Katama Ngeywa, and Robert Akumu Asembo.
Interviews for the commissioner positions began on March 27 and wrapped up on April 25. Out of 111 shortlisted candidates, 106 appeared before the panel for assessment.
This report’s submission paves the way for a new IEBC team to be constituted, replacing the previous commission that was disbanded following the 2022 General Election. The new team is expected to restore public trust and ensure credible electoral processes in future polls. All eyes now turn to Parliament as the vetting phase begins.
