ELIM Church in Kenol, Murang’a County, Wiper Party leader Dr. Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka has criticized the government’s handling of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), accusing President William Ruto and his administration of creating a constitutional crisis. The remarks come amid a backdrop of increasing tensions over the electoral body’s future, as the government faces mounting calls to expedite the reconstitution of the commission.
Kalonzo’s critique was blunt, highlighting what he sees as deliberate delays by the government in reconstituting the IEBC. According to him, these delays are politically motivated and part of a broader strategy by the Ruto administration to influence upcoming elections. “They want candidates who are easy to influence and manipulate,” Kalonzo stated, referring to what he describes as a strategic effort to ensure the electoral body lacks independence. This view echoes broader concerns among the opposition and civil society about the government’s intentions and the risks posed to electoral integrity.
The Wiper Party leader went on to explain that the Azimio coalition, to which he belongs, had adhered to court timelines and submitted Koki Muli as its nominee for the IEBC Selection Panel. However, he accused the government of filing an appeal against this decision in the Kiambu High Court, arguing that this move was aimed at stalling the process further. “Speaker Wetang’ula is also part of the conspiracy against Kenyans,” Kalonzo added, pointing to what he perceives as a lack of urgency from the government to address the crisis. “If they had taken the time to marshal Parliament as they did with Riggy G (Rigathi Gachagua), the country would not be in a constitutional crisis,” he asserted.
The political landscape around the IEBC has become increasingly contentious as the 2027 general elections approach. The reconstitution of the commission is a critical step in ensuring free and fair elections, and Kalonzo’s comments reflect concerns about the potential for a compromised electoral process. The IEBC’s independence is crucial for maintaining public trust in Kenya’s democratic institutions, and many worry that delays in its reconstitution could undermine this independence.
Kalonzo’s remarks also come at a time when the country is experiencing heightened political tension. His statement was not just a critique of the government’s handling of the IEBC but also a broader attack on the perceived politicization of state institutions. The opposition leader’s comments were made in front of a gathering of prominent political figures, including former Kiambu Governor Ferdinand Waititu, Jubilee Party Secretary-General Jeremiah Kioni, and former MPs Peter Mwathi (Limuru) and Jude Jomo (Kiambu). Their presence underscored the significance of the message, as these leaders represented different factions of the opposition and shared concerns about the state of democracy in Kenya.
Kalonzo’s visit to Murang’a also highlighted the role of religion in Kenyan politics, with the Wiper leader using the Sunday service to convey his message. The church has often been a space where political leaders engage with the public and articulate their positions on national issues. Kalonzo’s use of this platform was strategic, aiming to reach a wide audience and galvanize support among Kenyans who may feel alienated by the government’s handling of key issues like the IEBC.
The criticism from Kalonzo adds to the growing pressure on the government to take swift action on the IEBC crisis. As the deadline for the reconstitution of the commission approaches, the government faces mounting scrutiny from both the opposition and civil society. The outcome of this process will be crucial not just for the 2027 elections but for the future of Kenya’s democracy. With the constitutional clock ticking, it remains to be seen how the government will respond to these calls for action and whether it can avoid further controversy in the reconstitution of the IEBC.
In conclusion, Kalonzo’s visit to Murang’a and his subsequent remarks highlighted the increasing concerns over the state of democracy in Kenya. His accusations against the government over the IEBC crisis underscore the ongoing struggle for electoral integrity in the country. As political pressure mounts, it remains to be seen how the government will address these concerns and ensure that the 2027 elections are conducted in a fair and transparent manner. The path forward will be critical for Kenya’s stability and its democratic future.
