Wafula Chebukati, the former chairperson of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) in Kenya, made significant headlines during his tenure, especially during the tumultuous 2017 and 2022 general elections. Known for his calm demeanor and controversial decisions, Chebukati faced immense political pressure as he oversaw elections that were marred by disputes, legal challenges, and accusations of bias. His tenure ended in 2022 after the conclusion of the general elections, and he officially retired from his role at the IEBC.
After his retirement, Chebukati has largely remained out of the public eye but has taken on new roles that allow him to continue influencing the political landscape. One notable development is his involvement in international election-related projects. Chebukati has been invited to serve as an election observer and consultant for various electoral bodies around the world. This includes sharing his experience in overseeing elections under high-stakes environments, as his expertise in managing controversial and highly scrutinized elections is seen as valuable.
Back in Kenya, he has kept a relatively low profile but has occasionally appeared in media discussions on electoral reforms and governance. In 2023, he also found himself serving as a board member for various organizations, contributing to the development of better electoral systems.
Despite stepping down from the IEBC, Chebukati’s influence in Kenya’s political scene remains. His decisions, particularly regarding the controversial 2022 presidential election, continue to be a topic of discussion in Kenyan politics. He has become a respected figure for his steadfastness during turbulent electoral periods, though some still criticize his role in the electoral disputes that followed.
By wikipedia