The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has finally spoken out following backlash from some members of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) over the nomination of Harold Kipchumba as a nominated Member of Parliament.
Kipchumba was picked to take over the seat formerly held by John Mbadi, who is now serving as the Treasury Cabinet Secretary.
A section of ODM youth leaders strongly opposed Kipchumba’s nomination, claiming that Mbadi had been chosen to represent the “workers” category in Parliament, and therefore his replacement should come from the same category.
They insisted that John Ketora, who was also listed under the workers’ section, was the rightful nominee to take over the seat.
However, the IEBC clarified that these claims were not accurate and issued a detailed explanation to set the record straight. The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to fairness, transparency, and adherence to the law.
According to IEBC, ODM had submitted its party list back on July 23, 2022. This list was published in the national newspapers and also uploaded to the Commission’s website for public access.
In its official statement, IEBC cited Section 37 of the Elections Act and Regulation 56 of the Elections (General) Regulations, 2012. These laws clearly state that when a nominated seat falls vacant, it should be filled by the next eligible person on the party list, while considering gender balance and the legal requirements.
“In this particular case,” the IEBC said, “Harold Kimuge Kipchumba was the next qualified nominee on the list, and he shares the same gender as the outgoing MP, Hon. Mbadi. Therefore, his nomination was lawful and appropriate.”
Despite the uproar from ODM youth leaders, who maintained that the party list was based on specific categories—such as the workers’ category—the IEBC defended its decision, explaining that the nomination process followed the correct legal order and respected all required criteria.
“The Commission made this decision while strictly following the Constitution and relevant election laws,” IEBC emphasized in its statement.
To further clarify the issue, IEBC revealed that it had already sent a formal written explanation to ODM on Monday, July 28, outlining why Kipchumba was the rightful nominee.
Harold Kipchumba, who is well-known for his work advocating for the rights of persons with disabilities and is also a polio survivor, was officially sworn into office on Tuesday, July 29. He assumed the position under the category of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).
His swearing-in was attended by ODM party officials, showing that despite the internal disputes, the party leadership recognized the decision. The IEBC stressed that Kipchumba’s nomination reflects its broader mission of promoting equal and inclusive representation in Parliament for all Kenyans.
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