The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) selection panel was sworn in on Monday, January 27, at the Supreme Court by Chief Justice Martha Koome.
The ceremony marks the beginning of the recruitment process for new IEBC commissioners ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Speaking during the event, Koome highlighted the panel’s critical role in shaping the country’s future.
“This morning, I have sworn in the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) Selection Panel at the Supreme Court building. The importance of this step cannot be overstated. The role of the panel in constituting the IEBC is critical to the future of our country,” she stated.
Koome emphasized that credible elections are essential for Kenya’s stability and prosperity. She urged the panel to uphold integrity in the selection process.
“The credibility of elections defines the stability and the fate of our nation. History has shown us that when elections are free, fair, and transparent, our nation flourishes. Therefore, the Selection Panel has the utmost responsibility to select men and women of impeccable integrity and credibility to lead the IEBC,” she added.
She also called on institutions and stakeholders to ensure transparency and speed during the recruitment process.
“I urge all the institutions and stakeholders involved – parliament, political actors, civil society, and the public – to ensure that the recruitment of the new IEBC Commissioners is conducted with speed, integrity, and transparency. The Kenyan people expect and deserve nothing less,” she concluded.
In a gazette notice released on Monday, President William Ruto officially appointed nine members to the panel.
The appointees include Kiome Lindah Gakii, Prof. Oloo Adams, James Evans Misati, and Nicodemus Kipchirchir Bore. Others are Amb. Koki Muli Grignon, Carolene Kituku, Tanui Andrew Kipkoech, Nelson Makanda, and Fatuma Saman.
“In exercise of the powers conferred by section 7A of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission Act, as read with paragraph 1 (2) of the First Schedule to the Act, I, William Samoei Ruto, President of the Republic of Kenya and Commander-in-Chief of the Defence Forces, appoint (the appointees) to be Members of the Selection Panel for the Recruitment of nominees for appointment as the Chairperson and Members of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission,” read part of the notice.
