New IEBC to be in office in May, panel vows to pick competent Kenyans

The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) selection panel has committed to appointing capable Kenyans to lead the electoral body as it undertakes the important task of establishing new leadership for the commission.

The panel, which was fully constituted on Friday following the swearing-in of its remaining members, Fatuma Saman and Carolene Kituku, has commenced its mandate in earnest. The first order of business was the election of the chairperson and vice-chairperson to lead the team in its efforts.

Immediately after the election, the chairperson, Dr. Nelson Makanda, announced that the panel would proceed to advertise the vacant positions for commissioners of the electoral agency.

“The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission Act provides that the selection panel shall, within seven days of its appointment, invite applications from qualified persons and publish the names of all applicants and their qualifications in the Gazette, two newspapers of national circulation and on the website of the Parliamentary Service Commission,” he stated.

“In this regard, the Panel shall, tomorrow, Saturday 1 st February, 2025, invite applications from qualified Kenyans for the positions of Chairperson and Members of the IEBC,” Makanda added in a press statement.

He assured the public that his panel aims to present the next set of Commissioners and the Chairperson of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission within three months. Makanda urged Kenyans who believe they are qualified and suitable for the positions to submit their applications for consideration, promising them a fair chance.

“I assure Kenyans that the Selection Panel is committed to conducting the recruitment exercise in an impartial, fair and transparent manner,” he concluded.