IEBC selection panel defends move to vet six-non shortlisted candidates

The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) Selection Panel has defended its move to interview six more candidates from its initial shortlist, saying the six were among the over 1,000 applicants, dismissing claims of mischief.

In a briefing after it concluded the interviews, the panel, led by its chair Nelson Makanda, said the decision to interview the additional six was aimed at enhancing inclusivity, regional balance, and representation of the youth, in line with the constitutional principles.

Makanda also noted that the nine-member team while making the final list to forward to the president will consider the integrity of the candidates and professionalism in addition to the gender and regional balance question. 

The interviews for IEBC commissioner positions began on March 27, 2025, and concluded on April 25.