NAIROBI, Kenya – The National Assembly has approved a two-week extension for the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) selection panel, pushing its deadline from April 28 to May 12.
The extension, which seeks to allow the panel more time to complete the recruitment of new commissioners, now awaits Senate approval before being formally gazetted.
While the government has defended the move as necessary for ensuring a credible process, opposition leaders have raised concerns over possible political interference, warning that the IEBC’s independence is at stake.
The extension motion was tabled by Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah and Minority Leader Junet Mohammed, with the latter urging patience, even as he acknowledged the controversies surrounding previous selection processes.
“Let’s have faith in processes that have been initiated in good faith. This process started at NADCO, where public resources worth Sh131 billion were used, only for it to be thrown out,” Junet said.
He emphasized that no matter who leads the commission, election outcomes are ultimately determined by divine will.
“IEBC commissioners don’t determine who becomes president we have seen that before. Presidents are chosen by God. Let’s pray that the right person is anointed,” he remarked.
Junet also assured critics that the selection panel is inclusive, representing a broad spectrum of professional bodies and interest groups.
“We shouldn’t be preoccupied with who will be the chair or commissioners. Let’s give the panel time to finish its work before we criticize the outcome,” he stated.
Deputy Majority Leader Owen Baya reinforced these sentiments, warning that a rushed process could compromise the credibility of the 2027 elections.
“If we pressure the selection panel with tight deadlines, we risk getting a weak commission. Let’s allow them to do their job thoroughly to give Kenyans the best possible IEBC,” Baya stated.
He insisted that the 14-day extension is legal and necessary for adequate preparations for the polls.
“We are operating within the law, and this additional time is to ensure a more transparent and efficient process.”
Despite the assurances, opposition leaders have strongly opposed the extension, claiming it is part of a larger scheme to influence the composition of the IEBC.
Wiper Leader Kalonzo Musyoka, Narc-Kenya Leader Martha Karua, and DAP-Kenya Leader Eugene Wamalwa have accused the government of using the process to install a commission favorable to its interests.
“We reject a process that lacks transparency and public participation. The IEBC should be reconstituted through open consultations, not through backdoor deals,” Karua asserted.
Musyoka and Wamalwa echoed her concerns, warning that any attempt to unilaterally appoint a commission would be resisted.
“If the government proceeds without consensus, we will not recognize the outcome. This process must be above board,” Musyoka declared.
“We have seen efforts to manipulate the selection process to serve political interests. The IEBC must remain independent and impartial,”Wamalwa said.
The debate over the IEBC’s reconstitution has sparked fresh scrutiny of Kenya’s electoral process, with observers warning that any missteps could erode public confidence ahead of the 2027 polls.
The European Union’s Election Follow-up Mission has urged Kenyan authorities to expedite electoral reforms, cautioning that delays could create uncertainty in the country’s democratic process.
