- Wafula Chebukati’s burial is set for March 8, 2025, at his home in Sabata village, Trans Nzoia County.
- He succumbed to brain cancer after multiple surgeries and a long battle with the illness.
- His family has dismissed rumors that he was declared clinically dead before his passing.
- A post-mortem examination has been scheduled as part of burial preparations.
- Chebukati served as IEBC chair from 2017 to 2023, overseeing two general elections.
The former Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) chairperson, Wafula Chebukati, will be buried on March 8, 2025, at his home in Sabata village, near Kitale, Trans Nzoia County, his family has confirmed.
Family spokesperson Eric Wafula Nyongesa revealed that Chebukati had been battling brain cancer, which led to multiple surgeries and hospital admissions before his passing.
“He was first diagnosed with a brain tumor and underwent surgery in Germany. However, in April 2024, doctors discovered that the tumor had returned, requiring another operation,” Nyongesa stated.
Following his return to Kenya, Chebukati’s health continued to deteriorate. He was first admitted to the hospital in December 2024 and later readmitted on February 12, 2025, where he was placed in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). Tragically, on February 20, he suffered a cardiac arrest and passed away.
Family Dispels Rumors on His Death
Nyongesa dismissed speculation that had been circulating on social media, claiming that Chebukati had been declared clinically dead before his official passing.
“At no time was the immediate family called upon and informed that he was clinically dead,” he clarified.
To ensure transparency, the family has scheduled a post-mortem examination as part of preparations for his final send-off.
Chebukati’s Legacy in Kenya’s Electoral History
Born on December 22, 1961, Wafula Chebukati attended Lenana High School before joining the University of Nairobi (UoN), where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Law.
He was appointed IEBC chairperson in 2017, overseeing Kenya’s 2017 and 2022 general elections. His tenure was marked by major electoral reforms, but also faced political controversy, especially during the highly contested presidential elections.
Despite the challenges, Chebukati played a significant role in shaping Kenya’s electoral process and advocating for transparent elections.
As the country prepares to bid farewell to the former electoral chief, leaders and citizens continue to reflect on his contributions to Kenya’s democracy.
