Kithure Kindiki's IEBC Clearance Faces Challenge Over Commission's Incomplete Status

 

Kithure Kindiki during a Cabinet meeting at State House Nairobi (l) and the Harambee House (r).

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki has been nominated as Kenya’s next deputy president following the impeachment of Rigathi Gachagua, who was accused of gross constitutional violations and abuse of office. The Senate upheld Gachagua's impeachment, which took place while he was receiving treatment for severe chest pains at Karen Hospital, coinciding with the trial.  Why Kenyans question Kindiki's clearance by IEBC 

However, Kindiki's approval is under scrutiny due to concerns about his clearance by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), given the commission's incomplete status.  The IEBC has had vacancies since the 2022 elections, when four officials resigned after contesting the poll results. Additionally, former chairperson Wafula Chebukati, alongside commissioners Boya Molu and Abdi Guliye, completed their non-renewable contracts, leaving the commission without a full quorum. 

As a result, many Kenyans have raised questions about the legality of Kindiki’s clearance, which was granted in less than 24 hours. This controversy casts doubt on the validity of his nomination as deputy president. 

by  Nancy Odindo