President William Ruto has officially unveiled a new team to lead the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), signaling a fresh chapter for Kenya’s electoral body as the nation prepares for the 2027 General Election.
In a gazette notice issued on Tuesday, President Ruto appointed Erastus Edung Ethekon as the chairperson of the Commission.
He also named six commissioners who will serve alongside him for a term of six years. These are Ann Njeri Nderitu, Moses Alutalala Mukhwana, Mary Karen Sorobit, Hassan Noor Hassan, Francis Odhiambo Aduol, and Fahima Araphat Abdallah.
However, these appointments come amid controversy. A High Court ruling had previously blocked the formal announcement and swearing-in of the new IEBC team, citing concerns over the legality of the selection process.
Despite this, President Ruto moved forward with the appointments, raising concerns about whether the move goes against the court’s orders.
With their roles now officially confirmed, the newly appointed commissioners have major responsibilities ahead.
Their top priorities include restoring public confidence in the IEBC, initiating key electoral reforms, and overseeing the voter registration process—all under tight deadlines with the next General Election just two years away.
They will also have to rebuild the commission’s internal systems, fill staffing gaps, and address the institutional delays caused by the long vacancy left since early 2023, when former chair Wafula Chebukati and his team exited.
This leadership gap had paralyzed many of the commission’s critical functions for almost two years.
Erastus Edung Ethekon – Chairperson
Erastus Edung Ethekon brings a wealth of experience and a strong academic foundation to the role of IEBC chair.
He holds several advanced degrees, including a Master of Laws in Oil, Gas and Energy Law from the University of Derby (2016), a Master of Science in Project Management from the University of Liverpool (2013), and a Master of Arts in Peace, Conflict and Development Studies from Universidad Jaume I in Spain (2012).
He is also a Chevening Scholar and obtained a Postgraduate Certificate in the Implementation of International Human Rights Treaties from the University of Nottingham in 2007.
Professionally, Ethekon served as the County Attorney for Turkana County from 2018 to 2024. Before that, he worked as a Consultant Partner at Northern Consulting Solution and ran his own law practice, E. Ethekon & Co. Advocates, from 2004 until his IEBC nomination.
His diverse legal background and policy experience are expected to play a key role in steering the commission toward reform and credibility.
Ann Njeri Nderitu – Commissioner
Ann Nderitu brings both familiarity and experience to the IEBC, having previously served as the head of technical electoral training between 2016 and 2018. She is a graduate of both the University of Nairobi and Moi University, institutions where she built a strong academic foundation in governance and administration.
She has also held several other important roles within Kenya’s political landscape, including Registrar of Political Parties and Director of Voter Education and Partnerships. Her deep understanding of electoral processes and political systems makes her a valuable asset to the new commission.
Francis Odhiambo Aduol – Commissioner
At 73 years old, Professor Francis Aduol brings a rich academic and professional background to the commission. He is a Professor of Survey and Geospatial Sciences and formerly served as the Vice Chancellor of the Technical University of Kenya.
Aduol was also a consultant to the Interim Independent Boundaries Review Commission (IIBRC) between 2009 and 2010.
His expertise in geographical and spatial analysis is expected to be especially useful in matters related to boundary delimitation and constituency reviews, areas that are crucial to ensuring fair and equal representation.
Mary Karen Sorobit – Commissioner
Mary Karen Sorobit adds a strong legal and civic voice to the commission. She has a solid background in electoral law, civic education, and legal advisory roles.
Her work has often focused on policy analysis and public participation, making her well-positioned to help the IEBC strengthen its community outreach and civic engagement programs.
She has previously served as Deputy Secretary for Compliance and Ethics at the Law Society of Kenya, where she also contributed to the organization’s disciplinary committee. Sorobit’s legal insight and advocacy experience are expected to support the commission’s drive for accountability and transparency.
Hassan Noor Hassan – Commissioner
Hassan Noor Hassan is a seasoned public servant with vast experience in government coordination and public administration. Although he has largely worked behind the scenes, his contributions to governance and development policy implementation span decades.
He previously served as a provincial commissioner, and his knowledge of administrative systems at both national and local levels is anticipated to improve the commission’s operational efficiency. His leadership skills could also help navigate the complex political environment surrounding electoral reforms.
Fahima Araphat Abdallah – Commissioner
Fahima Araphat Abdallah represents a new face in national electoral leadership and brings diversity and fresh perspective to the IEBC. While her public profile is not as prominent as that of her fellow appointees, her selection is seen as part of an effort to broaden representation and include voices from historically underrepresented groups in the commission.
Her presence in the team is expected to contribute to more inclusive decision-making and help the IEBC reach diverse communities more effectively, particularly as it seeks to expand voter registration and civic education efforts in preparation for the 2027 General Election.
Conclusion
The new IEBC team appointed by President Ruto has officially taken shape despite ongoing legal pushback and public scrutiny.
With a mix of seasoned experts, legal minds, academicians, and new entrants, the commission is now tasked with a significant mission: to restore credibility, ensure transparency, and deliver a fair electoral process in 2027.
The road ahead will be demanding, but how this team responds will define the future of Kenya’s democratic process.
Join Gen Z New WhatsApp Channel To Stay Updated On time https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaWT5gSGufImU8R0DO30
