Nairobi: Seven appointed members of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) selection panel took oath of office at the Supreme Court of Kenya on Monday at a ceremony presided over by Chief Justice Martha Koome. The selection panel members are Kiome Lindah Gakii, Prof. Oloo Adams, James Evans Misati, Nicodemus Kipchirchir Bore, Amb. Koki Muli Grignon, Tanui Andrew Kipkoech, and Dr. Nelson Makanda. The team is tasked with recruiting nominees for appointment as Chairperson and members of the IEBC.
According to Kenya News Agency, Chief Justice Koome emphasized the significance of the panel’s role, urging them to prioritize integrity and merit in their selections. She stated that the strength of Kenya’s democracy and the credibility of its elections hinge on the integrity of the IEBC. Koome highlighted that the Commissioners appointed must be individuals of untainted credibility, committed to independence and the principles enshrined in the Constitution. The CJ underscored the importance of the IEBC as the custodian of electoral integrity, stressing that its composition must reflect the highest standards of professionalism.
Koome further noted that the absence of a duly constituted Commission has hindered the IEBC’s ability to perform essential functions such as boundary delimitation and voter registration since January 2023. She pointed out that this has affected representation in the National Assembly and County Assemblies, emphasizing that governance must be continuous and effective. The Chief Justice affirmed the Judiciary’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and protecting constitutional processes.
Chief Justice Koome also called for swift and transparent recruitment of new IEBC Commissioners, urging all stakeholders to prioritize the public interest. She reminded the selection panel that their duty is to identify leaders who will inspire trust in the electoral process and ensure free, fair, and transparent elections. Principal Administrative Secretary Arthur Osiya also addressed the panel, stressing the importance of their mandate and the scrutiny it attracts. Osiya urged the panel to maintain high standards and focus on the country’s best interests, thanking CJ Koome for her role in fostering collaboration among the government branches.