- Opposition leaders claim the IEBC recruitment was controlled by State House insiders.
- They allege the newly named commissioners are allies of President Ruto and Raila Odinga.
- The process reportedly lacked transparency, neutrality, and constitutional fairness.
- Specific nominees are linked to political figures, raising conflict of interest concerns.
- The opposition has announced the creation of a “People’s IEBC” to monitor the official body.
- Kenyans urged to remain alert and defend the democratic space ahead of 2027.
A storm is brewing in Kenya’s political landscape after President William Ruto unveiled the names of the new IEBC team. The self proclaimed People’s Opposition has come out strongly, accusing Ruto of handpicking loyalists to tilt the 2027 general election in his favour. The opposition further claims that the process was compromised from the start, lacking the neutrality required by law.
They also called out ODM leader Raila Odinga, saying his quiet support of the appointments shows he is now part of a power-sharing scheme rather than the opposition struggle.
Selection Process Branded a “State House Project”
According to the opposition, the entire recruitment exercise was manipulated by individuals close to State House. They argue that the selection panel ignored constitutional guidelines like public participation and political fairness.
They pointed out that some panel members have personal links to the presidency, including Dr. Adams Oloo who reportedly works with President Ruto in a communications role. The group views this as a clear violation of the panel’s neutrality.
Allegations of Bias in Shortlisting and Nominee Selection
The opposition highlighted cases they believe show favouritism in the final list. They claim Hassan Noor, a relative of ODM’s Junet Mohammed, only made it to the list after an extension was pushed through for political convenience.
UDA’s Joy Midivo and Ruto ally Charles Nyachae were also named among those with conflicts of interest. In addition, the nominee for Chairperson, Erastus Edung, is alleged to be too close to State House and lacking a credible track record.
Violation of Constitutional Standards
Citing Article 88(2) of the Constitution, opposition leaders insist the IEBC should be an independent and impartial institution. They say what Kenyans have instead is a commission built to serve political interests, especially President Ruto’s 2027 re-election.
They argue that what is unfolding is not just electoral manipulation but a bigger threat to democracy, branding the newly appointed body a political tool rather than a neutral institution.
People’s IEBC to Be Formed in Protest
To counter what they call a hijacked IEBC, the opposition announced they will soon launch a parallel citizen-driven watchdog named the “People’s IEBC.” The body will monitor the official commission and ensure transparency and accountability.
They also demanded that the Selection Panel’s final report and all relevant documents be made public for scrutiny by Kenyans.
Warning to Kenyans: Safeguard Democracy Before It’s Too Late
In a strong message to the public, the opposition urged Kenyans not to stay silent. They warned that the current administration is actively trying to weaken key institutions to remain in power. They say the resistance is not just about 2027, but about defending the very essence of the country’s democracy.
The Voices Behind the People’s Opposition
The statement was signed by several political heavyweights, including:
Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka, SC – Wiper Party Leader, Martha Karua, SC – People’s Liberation Party Leader, Rigathi Gachagua, EGH – Second Deputy President of Kenya, Eugene Wamalwa, EGH – DAP-Kenya Party Leader, Justin Muturi, EGH – Democratic Party Leader, Torome Saitoti – Jubilee Party Chair, Fred Matiang’i, EGH – UPA Party Leader, Mukhisa Kituyi, EGH – Former UNCTAD Secretary General
They vowed to continue mobilizing citizens across the country to protect the Constitution, restore integrity to the electoral process, and stop what they described as the erosion of democratic space.
