Opposition leaders, led by Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, have accused the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) Secretariat of engaging in suspicious activities, such as relocating servers and planning to procure excessive election materials. They have urged President William Ruto to swiftly establish the IEBC Selection Panel, claiming he is undermining independent institutions and delaying crucial reforms.
The leaders also warned of possible street protests by March if the commission is not restructured.
"On Monday, we intend to release a clear statement about the situation. Meanwhile, there are serious concerns within the IEBC Secretariat, including procurement issues. They seem to be testing the waters," said Kalonzo. "We have information that a former commissioner, now an advisor at State House, is influencing the Secretariat’s decisions. The country is watching, and they are pushing boundaries. If we allow this procurement process to continue, they may begin ordering materials for the 2027 elections."
Jubilee Secretary General Jeremiah Kioni added, “I must emphasize that President William Ruto must act swiftly to ensure that the IEBC commissioners are in place, so he doesn’t face opposition led by Kalonzo Musyoka. This is no longer a matter for debate; it's time for action and accountability."
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DAP-Kenya Party Leader Eugene Wamalwa also criticized the government's delay in reconstituting the IEBC, nearly four years into the current administration. "I fully support my colleagues in calling for the immediate reconstitution of the IEBC. President Ruto has no excuse for further delay. We’re entering the third year of this administration, and it’s high time we start preparing for the next election,” he said.
These comments come after the High Court cleared the way for President Ruto to appoint the IEBC Commissioners Selection Panel, dismissing a petition that had challenged the constitutionality of the process.
On Friday, the Kiambu High Court rejected a petition filed by Bonface Njogu, which claimed that people living with disabilities were excluded from the panel's selection. Judge Dola Chepkwony ruled that the petition lacked sufficient evidence. The court also dismissed a claim from Azimio, asserting that their nomination process for the panel was not competitive or transparent.
The nominated panel members are Dr. Nelson Makanda, Fatuma Saman, Amb. Koki Muli, Evans Misati, Nicodemus Bore Kipchirchir, Andrew Tanui Kipkoech, Caroline Kituku, Prof. Adams Oloo, and Linda Koome.
