Details of Kalonzo Musyoka’s Letter to Raila Odinga after MoU with Ruto
Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka has expressed doubts about the fairness of the ongoing process to reconstitute the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC).
Kalonzo believes that the recent political alliance between ODM leader Raila Odinga and President William Ruto could compromise the integrity of the selection process. He pointed out that the IEBC reconstitution was not included in the 10-point agenda agreed upon by Raila and Ruto, which he found concerning.
Kalonzo Demands Transparency
Speaking on the matter, Kalonzo said he was closely watching the selection panel responsible for appointing the nine IEBC commissioners. He emphasized the need for consultation and agreement in the process, recalling his role as co-chair of the National Dialogue Committee (NADCO) with Kikuyu MP Kimani Ichung’wah.
“We are waiting for the right moment to speak up as we observe how the selection is being done. When I co-chaired NADCO, I insisted on the principle of consultation and concurrence,” Kalonzo stated.
He further revealed that he had written a letter to seek clarification on the process, expressing disappointment that Raila had aligned with Ruto instead of supporting his concerns.
IEBC Selection Process Underway
The nine-member selection panel has already shortlisted candidates for the positions of IEBC chairperson and commissioners. Interviews are scheduled to begin on March 24 and continue through April 2025.
This process began in February 2025 after delays caused by court cases. President Ruto formed the selection team after legal hurdles blocking its establishment were cleared.
IEBC Vacancies Since 2023
The IEBC has been operating without commissioners since the terms of its former chairperson, the late Wafula Chebukati, and two commissioners, Boya Molu and Abdi Guliye, ended in January 2023.
Four other commissioners left the agency due to controversies surrounding the 2022 presidential election results. These included then-vice chairperson Juliana Cherera and commissioners Francis Wanderi, Justus Nyang’aya, and Irene Masit. They opposed Chebukati’s declaration of Ruto as the winner.
While Cherera, Nyang’aya, and Wanderi resigned, Masit fought to stay in office. However, a tribunal appointed by President Ruto ruled for her dismissal.
With the ongoing selection process, concerns remain about its transparency and fairness, especially in light of the new political alliances. Many stakeholders, including Kalonzo, continue to call for accountability to ensure a credible electoral body for the future.
Details of Kalonzo Musyoka’s Letter to Raila Odinga after MoU with Ruto
