Senator Ledama Questions Independence of IEBC Chairperson Candidates
Narok Senator Ledama Ole Kina has expressed skepticism over the shortlisted candidates for the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) chairperson position, arguing that they lack the necessary integrity and independence to oversee elections fairly.
Speaking during an interview with Citizen TV, Senator Ledama claimed that the selection process had produced candidates who are easily compromised and unlikely to uphold ethical standards.
"I believe this is a completely wrong list of candidates to steer this country forward in terms of electoral integrity," he remarked. "I see individuals who will be 'yes people'—they cannot be independent or guided by ethics and integrity."
The senator further criticized the experience and background of those shortlisted, advocating for a younger, more radical leader to bring transparency and fairness to the commission.
"These are individuals who have been recycled from different jobs. It’s time for fresh leadership—a young, radical leader who can restore public trust in the electoral process," he added.
Tetu Member of Parliament (MP) Geoffrey Wandeto, who was also on the panel, echoed these sentiments, stating that the shortlisted individuals do not inspire confidence among the electorate due to their political affiliations.
"I don’t know whether the country has run out of qualified candidates. I see individuals with a history that aligns with one political divide," he stated. "My concern is that we might end up with someone who cannot say 'no' even when pressured by the highest office."
The IEBC Selection Panel officially commenced interviews for the chairperson position on Monday, March 24, at the College of Insurance in Nairobi. The three-day process is being conducted publicly to enhance transparency.
Monday’s interviews featured candidates such as former Constitutional Implementation Committee Chairperson Charles Nyachae, former Chief Registrar of the Judiciary Anne Amadi, Abdulqadir Lorot Ramadhan, and Edward Katama Ngeywa.
On Tuesday, the panel will interview Erastus Edung Ethekon, Francis Kakai Kissinger, former Nairobi County Assembly Clerk Jacob Ngwele, and Kenya Power Board Chairperson Joy Masinde-Mdivo.
The final batch of chairperson candidates, including Lillian Wanjiku Manegene, Robert Akumu Asembo, and Saul Simiyu Wasilwa, will face the panel on Wednesday.
Following the chairperson selection process, interviews for six other commissioner positions will take place from March 26 to April 24.
