Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has called on the international community to intervene in the ongoing delay in reconstituting Kenya’s electoral body, the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC). Speaking during a church service in Dandora, Nairobi, on January 12, Gachagua expressed his concern over the lack of a functional IEBC, a situation he described as “unfortunate” as the nation moves closer to the 2027 General Election. The electoral body is currently operating without a chairperson or commissioners, despite the continued functioning of its Secretariat.
The delay in reconstituting the IEBC has sparked political tension, with Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura attributing the setback to a court injunction that blocked the formation of the IEBC Selection Panel. According to Mwaura, the issue can be resolved if the Wiper Party nominates a representative to the panel, urging them to avoid further litigation and focus on resolving the matter.
Gachagua emphasized the importance of adhering to the Kriegler report, which recommends that a functional electoral body be in place at least three years before a general election. As the 2027 elections approach, he highlighted the urgency of forming the new commission to ensure a smooth electoral process. He also appealed to the international community, including newly-elected US President Donald Trump, to help pressure President William Ruto to prioritize the reconstitution of the IEBC.
In his remarks, Gachagua also criticized President Ruto over his call for parents to instill good morals in their children, while overlooking the use of abusive language by some of his allies. He urged the President to take responsibility for curbing such behavior within his circles, suggesting that the actions of some of Ruto’s supporters were contributing to a culture of disrespect.
Gachagua’s comments underscore the growing frustration with the slow pace of political reforms, with significant implications for Kenya’s democratic processes as the nation prepares for future elections.
