The recent comments by Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka regarding the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) reconstitution have sparked renewed discussions about the role of the opposition coalition, Azimio, in the delays. Kalonzo’s statement on Sunday, that Azimio is not to blame for the IEBC delays, underscores the growing concerns within the political landscape about the independence and efficiency of Kenya’s electoral commission.
The Delay in Reconstituting the IEBC
Kalonzo Musyoka’s insistence that Azimio has fulfilled its obligations by naming Dr. Koki Muli for the selection panel highlights a critical point in the debate. According to the coalition, they complied with the 48-hour deadline to submit a representative’s name for the IEBC selection panel. Dr. Koki Muli, a respected figure with a background that includes significant contributions to public service, was nominated to represent Azimio. However, Kalonzo argued that the delay in constituting the panel is due to some individuals within the political landscape who are reluctant to accept her due to fear of her capabilities and independence.
Political Influence and the IEBC Reconstitution
The issue of political influence in the IEBC reconstitution process has been a contentious one. The selection of commissioners for the IEBC has been historically influenced by partisan politics, often leading to public mistrust in the institution’s ability to conduct fair and free elections. This is why, according to Kalonzo, there is a deliberate attempt to thwart the nomination of Dr. Koki Muli – an effort to maintain control over the electoral process. Azimio’s challenge is ensuring that the selected panel members are not seen as “user-friendly” to any political party, thereby maintaining the independence of the commission.
Calls for President Ruto to Intervene
Kalonzo’s call to President William Ruto to act with speed in resolving the IEBC reconstitution issue is significant. He emphasized that Kenyans are eagerly waiting for the President to take decisive action to avoid further political stagnation. The delay in reconstituting the IEBC, as pointed out by Kalonzo, not only affects the credibility of the electoral process but also threatens the stability of the country’s democracy.
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki echoed this sentiment by urging all parties that have not yet settled on their representatives for the selection panel to engage in talks and resolve their differences. He pointed out the need for a functional IEBC by the end of the year or, at the latest, by the end of next month, to ensure that Kenya can conduct its next elections smoothly and transparently. Kindiki’s call for dialogue between political parties to select their representatives underscores the necessity of a unified approach to addressing this critical issue.
The Role of Judiciary in the IEBC Reconstitution
The involvement of the judiciary has further complicated the process. Kalonzo’s remarks about known individuals who have sought court injunctions suggest that some members of the state are aware of the sources of the delay. The concern is that these legal challenges are being used as a tool to block the reconstitution process. The implication is that those who have gone to court should consider out-of-court settlements to expedite the formation of the selection panel. This approach would prevent the ongoing delays and allow for a more streamlined process to appoint new IEBC commissioners.
The Broader Impact on Kenya’s Democracy
The delays in reconstituting the IEBC have broader implications for Kenya’s democracy. The electoral commission is crucial for the conduct of free and fair elections, which are foundational to the democratic process. The ongoing uncertainty and delays not only undermine public confidence in the electoral process but also threaten the legitimacy of the democratic system. It is crucial for the political leadership to resolve these issues swiftly to maintain stability and trust among Kenyans.
Conclusion
Kalonzo’s statements highlight the urgency for both political dialogue and presidential intervention in resolving the IEBC reconstitution issue. The need for a fair, transparent, and independent commission is critical for Kenya’s democratic health. As the clock ticks towards the next election cycle, it is imperative for all political actors to prioritize national interest over personal or partisan gains. The call for a unified approach, as emphasized by both Kalonzo and Kindiki, is essential for ensuring that Kenya can conduct credible elections and uphold the integrity of its democratic process. The onus now lies on President William Ruto and the government to act decisively, ensuring that the selection of the new IEBC panel is carried out in a transparent and fair manner, thereby restoring public confidence in the electoral process.
