Wiper Party Leader Kalonzo Musyoka has strongly criticized President William Ruto’s recent unilateral decision to appoint the new Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) chairperson and commissioners, accusing him of ignoring key democratic principles that have shaped Kenya’s electoral process.
Speaking at the burial of the late MCA Joel Munuve in Mwingi West, Kitui County, Kalonzo expressed frustration over what he described as a lack of consultation with political stakeholders, including his own party and opposition allies.
Kalonzo revealed that his letters to both President Ruto and ODM Leader Raila Odinga regarding the appointment process had gone unanswered, further fueling his discontent.
“The selection of IEBC officials should be a transparent process that involves all stakeholders. You cannot have a fair election if the referee is chosen by one team,” Kalonzo stated, criticizing Ruto’s actions as a direct attack on Kenya’s democracy. He warned that the decision could backfire in the 2027 General Election, regardless of who holds the position of IEBC chairperson.
Kalonzo’s sentiments echoed the frustration of other opposition leaders, including DAP-K Party Leader Eugene Wamalwa, who condemned the president’s move as a violation of the consultation framework outlined during the Bomas process.
Both leaders have promised to mobilize the opposition in challenging the appointment process, which they claim undermines the ideals of fairness and equity in Kenya’s electoral system.
“The people of Kenya deserve a transparent and independent IEBC. We will not allow this hijacking of the electoral process,” Kalonzo emphasized, hinting at potential opposition-led campaigns to ensure that the 2027 election is conducted with integrity.
Kalonzo also touched on the unresolved death of MCA Joel Munuve, which has raised political concerns. While an initial autopsy confirmed that Munuve died from a blood clot, Kalonzo expressed doubts and called for further investigation, urging the authorities to provide clarity.
“Political assassinations will not be tolerated in this country. We demand the truth behind MCA Munuve’s death,” Kalonzo added, reinforcing his stance on the need for a transparent investigation into the cause of the MCA’s sudden demise.
