In a significant development for Kenya’s political landscape, ODM Party leader Hon Raila Odinga has secured a pivotal victory in the ongoing Bipartisan talks. The focus of this triumph is the process of appointing commissioners for the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC).
The breakthrough came as Former Attorney General Hon Amos Wako proposed a paradigm shift in the selection process. Wako suggested that political parties should take the reins in nominating their preferred candidates for IEBC commissioner roles. This proposal marks a departure from the existing system, where there are concerns about the potential influence of President William Ruto over the appointment process.
This proposed change is a testament to Raila Odinga’s persistent claims that Ruto aims to exert undue control over the forthcoming 2027 general election. The move to allow political parties to nominate candidates for the IEBC positions is seen as a step toward fostering a more impartial and transparent electoral process.
Kenyans.co.ke has reported on this significant development, stating, “Former Attorney General Amos Wako submits proposal to the National Dialogue Committee calling for political parties to be allowed to select IEBC commissioners.”
This submission to the committee adds weight to the growing consensus that reevaluating the current appointment process is essential for ensuring a fair and credible electoral system.
As the Bipartisan talks continue, all eyes are on the potential transformation of the IEBC commissioner appointment process, with implications for the integrity of Kenya’s future elections.