- Speaker Wetang’ula says Parliament, not the President, is handling IEBC appointments.
- JLAC is receiving public input through memorandums for transparency.
- Political tension rises after Ruto nominated Erastus Ethekon as IEBC Chair.
- Leaders urge unity and warn against turning the process into a tribal issue.
- Several MPs back the selection process, saying it has enough checks.
During a fundraising event at St. Michaels Kamelilo School in Nandi County, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula made it clear that the process of appointing new IEBC officials is being handled by Parliament, not the Head of State.
Parliament in Charge, Not State House
Wetang’ula explained that the Justice and Legal Affairs Committee (JLAC) is in charge of the ongoing recruitment. He called the process both open and constitutional, inviting any concerned citizen to submit their views to JLAC instead of pointing fingers at the President.
Ruto’s Nominee Triggers Reactions
His statement comes just days after President William Ruto picked Erastus Edung Ethekon to head the electoral commission, following the death of former IEBC chair Wafula Chebukati. The President also proposed six commissioners from different communities.
Supporters vs Critics
While Ruto’s allies welcomed the nominations, some opposition leaders expressed doubt and questioned the process. However, Speaker Wetang’ula emphasized that Parliament is the final decision-maker on such matters—not the President.
Avoid Divisive Politics, Ichung’wah Says
Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah urged leaders and Kenyans to avoid using tribal lenses when discussing the appointments. He called for mature national dialogue, stating the country should focus on unity and progress.
‘Baseless Complaints’ from Opponents – Osoro
Majority Whip Sylvanus Osoro also responded to criticism, saying the accusations targeting government development programs and the IEBC process are empty. He reminded Kenyans that the commission’s role is to remain neutral during elections.
Melly: Let’s Trust the Process
Tinderet MP Julius Melly assured the public that the recruitment exercise has proper structures in place. He dismissed claims that the President was influencing the outcome and said spreading such ideas only misleads the public.
Leaders Call for Calm and Unity
All the leaders present stressed the need to trust independent institutions like the IEBC and not drag political interests into their operations. They called on citizens to focus on building national unity as the country prepares for upcoming elections.
