Miguna Miguna Criticizes New IEBC Chair Erastus Ethekon, Calls Him a Ruto Ally- ‘Not Independent’
Outspoken lawyer Dr. Miguna Miguna has strongly criticized the appointment of Erastus Ethekon as the new chairperson of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), accusing him of lacking independence and acting as a loyalist to President William Ruto.
Speaking in an interview on Sunday, July 13, Miguna questioned Ethekon’s impartiality, pointing to his past political ties and how he was appointed. According to Miguna, Ethekon’s previous role working under Deputy Chief of Staff Josphat Nanok—who was also the Turkana County Governor—shows he is closely aligned with Ruto’s inner circle.
“Erastus Ethekon is not an independent leader,” Miguna said. “He once worked for Josphat Nanok in Turkana and was handpicked by President Ruto, just like many others chosen to lead supposedly independent offices. This commission is designed in Ruto’s image.”
Miguna warned that the appointment of Ethekon echoes previous controversial selections of electoral commission heads. He mentioned former IEBC bosses like Samuel Kivuitu, Issack Hassan, and Wafula Chebukati, all of whom faced criticism over their handling of elections.
“I warned Kenyans before about Kivuitu, Hassan, and Chebukati—and I was proven right. Now I’m warning again. Ethekon and the commissioners appointed alongside him are not independent. They’re part of Ruto’s political choir,” Miguna claimed.
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Miguna’s comments came just a day after IEBC released a statement condemning accusations of electoral bias. The commission said such claims were reckless and could damage public confidence in the electoral body.
“The IEBC is deeply concerned by recent remarks about election malpractice,” the statement read. “These kinds of statements are harmful and should be dismissed. In a democracy like Kenya, they are not acceptable.”
Now operating with a full leadership team, the IEBC said it is focused on restoring public trust and transparency. The commission plans to work closely with political leaders and other stakeholders to strengthen credibility in the election process.
“We’re now fully constituted and committed to engaging with all stakeholders to rebuild trust in our systems,” the commission stated.
IEBC also urged politicians and public figures to avoid making statements that could stir unnecessary tensions ahead of future elections.
“All stakeholders, especially political leaders, should help build public confidence—not destroy it. Let’s work together to ensure fair and trusted electoral processes,” the commission added.
Miguna Miguna Criticizes New IEBC Chair Erastus Ethekon, Calls Him a Ruto Ally- ‘Not Independent’
