NAIROBI, Kenya – The search for Kenya’s next Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) Chairperson is officially underway.
After more than two years of leadership uncertainty following Wafula Chebukati’s exit, the selection panel has begun grilling 11 shortlisted candidates in a process expected to shape the country’s electoral future.
The interviews, which kicked off on Monday morning at the College of Insurance in Nairobi’s South C, mark a crucial step in filling the top electoral position.
Led by Dr. Nelson Makanda, the panel is working to ensure that Kenya’s next election chief is up to the task of restoring public trust and strengthening the commission’s credibility.
Senator Ledama Olekina: The shortlisted candidates for the IEBC chair cannot lead this country to greater electoral success. These individuals have been recycled from previous jobs, and it’s time to appoint a radical young leader #CitizenDayBreak @SamGituku
Who’s in the Running?
The race has been narrowed from 37 applicants to 11, with candidates facing the panel in a three-day selection process.
Among those interviewed on Monday were Abdulqadir Lorot Ramadhan, former Chief Registrar of the Judiciary Anne Atieno Amadi, former East African Court of Justice judge Charles Ayako Nyachae, and Edward Katama Ngeywa.
On Tuesday, the spotlight shifts to Erastus Edung Ethekon, Francis Kakai Kissinger, Jacob Ngwele Muvengei, and Joy Brenda Masinde-Mdivo.
The final set of interviews will take place on Wednesday, March 26, featuring Lillian Wanjiku Manegene (Kirinyaga), Robert Akumu Asembo (Busia), and Saul Simiyu Wasilwa (Bungoma).
The stakes couldn’t be higher—whoever lands the role will be tasked with overseeing Kenya’s next general election, ensuring a transparent process, and addressing concerns about electoral integrity.
Once the chairperson selection wraps up, attention will shift to filling six vacant IEBC commissioner positions.
Abdulqadir Lorot – Nominee, IEBC Chair: I possess skills in competence and teamwork, having managed election disputes before
A staggering 105 candidates, including 32 women, have been shortlisted for these roles. Their interviews begin on Thursday, March 28, and will run until April 24.
This recruitment comes at a critical moment, with the commission expected to roll out key electoral reforms ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The process will be closely watched by political players, civil society, and voters eager for a fair and efficient electoral body.
The IEBC has long been a focal point of controversy in Kenya’s political landscape, with past elections marred by allegations of irregularities, disputes, and legal battles.
As the selection panel works through the list of candidates, Kenyans will be watching closely—hoping that the next chairperson will bring much-needed stability to the electoral body.
