Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has urged the government to expedite the reconstitution of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), expressing concerns that delays could undermine the credibility of future elections.
Speaking during a church service in Mwiki, Kasarani, Gachagua emphasized that a credible election process necessitates having the electoral commission in place well in advance.
He noted that, according to the Krigler report, the commission should be established three years before elections, yet with only two and a half years remaining until the next general election, the IEBC remains unformed.
The IEBC has been inoperative since the 2022 elections, following the resignation of four commissioners amid controversy and the expiration of terms for three others.
This situation has raised concerns among various stakeholders about the commission’s preparedness for upcoming electoral events.
Supreme Court Judge Isaac Lenaola recently criticized the National Assembly for prioritizing politically charged legislation over the urgent reconstitution of the IEBC, warning that such delays could hinder the commission’s readiness for future elections.
The reconstitution process has faced additional challenges, including legal disputes and political disagreements.
Parliament passed the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (Amendment) Bill 2024 in July, which President William Ruto signed into law, paving the way for the selection process.
However, a tribunal court barred Parliament from forwarding nominees’ names to the president, following challenges from the Azimio la Umoja coalition regarding the original list of nominees.
These obstacles have further delayed the formation of a new electoral body, prompting calls from leaders like Gachagua for swift action to ensure the integrity of future elections.
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua calls for immediate constitution of IEBC.pic.twitter.com/NHj5IFJwIO
— Lion of the Mountain (@BrianMPeter) December 8, 2024
