Mounting public concern over the independence of Kenya’s electoral body has taken a new turn, with the Kenya National Civil Society Centre (KNCSC) amplifying calls for integrity and impartiality in the ongoing selection of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) leadership.
In a strong statement issued on April 13, the KNCSC welcomed the decision by lawyer Katwa Kigen to voluntarily withdraw his candidature, describing it as an “honourable” move in the face of growing scrutiny. The organization now wants two other high-profile applicants Charles Nyachae and Joy Masinde-Mdivo to follow suit.
“The Kenya National Civil Society Centre (KNCSC) calls on applicants for the position of Chairperson and membership of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), who have been accused publicly of being too close to the powers that be to search their conscience, smell the coffee and consider withdrawing voluntarily from the recruitment process as lawyer Katwa Kigen has honourably done,” read the statement signed by KNCSC Executive Director Suba Churchill.
The call comes amid increasing debate over the eligibility of individuals perceived to have strong ties to the current administration. Nyachae chairs the Kenya School of Government board, while Mdivo heads the Kenya Power board positions that critics argue compromise the neutrality expected of IEBC officials.
According to KNCSC, appointing individuals with such affiliations would “irredeemably compromise the independence and the performance of the commission,” undermining public confidence in a body that plays a central role in Kenya’s democratic process.
Public outcry intensified recently after civil rights group Operation Linda Jamii filed a petition in court challenging the eligibility of the two. The petition argued that holding public office disqualifies both applicants under the Constitution.
“By shortlisting persons who are constitutionally disqualified, the IEBC selection panel has violated the Constitution and the principles of good governance, transparency, and accountability,” the petition read in part.
As the vetting process proceeds, civil society voices continue to stress the importance of not just legal qualifications, but also the perceived integrity and independence of those tasked with overseeing Kenya’s electoral affairs.
