Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has called on the proposed Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) nominees to serve with integrity, patriotism, and a firm commitment to the Constitution, warning against any attempt to manipulate the will of the Kenyan people in the run-up to the 2027 General Election.
Speaking during an exclusive interview on the Obina TV Show at his Wamunyoro home, Gachagua stressed the importance of an impartial electoral body, urging the nominees to remember their duty lies with the citizens.
“I want to implore those commissioners (nominees) to be Kenyans, to be patriotic, and not to attempt to force anyone on the people of Kenya. It will not work, and Kenyans will not accept it,” said Gachagua.
His remarks come ahead of the National Assembly’s vetting of IEBC nominees, scheduled for May 26, 2025. President William Ruto has nominated Erastus Edung Ethekon as chairperson, alongside Anne Nderitu, Moses Mukwana, Mary Karen Sorobit, Hassan Noor, Francis Odhiambo, and Fahima Abdalla as commissioners.
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has already forwarded the list to the Departmental Committee on Justice and Legal Affairs, which is currently receiving public submissions on the nominees’ suitability.
While Gachagua had earlier noted he had no personal objection to the nominees, he reiterated that power ultimately rests with the people.
“I have no problem with the IEBC because the Supreme Court ruled in 2013 that the voter’s decision at the polling station is final,” he said.
The IEBC reconstitution process has not been without controversy, with several petitions filed in court challenging the impartiality and credibility of some nominees.
Gachagua also spoke about the rising political awareness among Kenyan youth, particularly Generation Z, describing them as a non-tribal and incorruptible force poised to influence the 2027 elections.
“This Gen Z group is lethal; they are not tribal, cannot be compromised, and cannot be bribed with Sh200. I’ve confirmed they are now taking identity cards and preparing to register as voters,” he observed.
