The family of former Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) Chairperson Wafula Chebukati has revealed that he had been battling a recurrent cancerous brain tumor before succumbing to cardiac arrest on February 20, 2025.
Speaking to the press on Monday, the family disclosed that Chebukati was first diagnosed with the tumor several years ago and had undergone a successful surgery in Germany to have it removed. However, in April 2024, medical tests revealed that the tumor had recurred, necessitating another trip to Germany for a second surgical procedure.
Despite the medical interventions, the tumor returned once again, prompting further medical consultations in December 2024. His health deteriorated further, and on February 12, 2025, he was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) for specialized care. He remained under close medical observation until he suffered a fatal cardiac arrest on February 20, 2025.
The family has refuted rumors circulating on social media that Chebukati was declared clinically dead earlier than officially announced. “At no time was the immediate family called upon and informed he was clinically dead,” the family spokesperson clarified.
The former IEBC chair’s passing marks the end of an era for a man who played a critical role in Kenya’s electoral process. Chebukati, who served as the head of the electoral body during Kenya’s contentious 2017 General Election, was a prominent figure in the country’s governance landscape. His tenure at IEBC was characterized by both praise and controversy, as he oversaw a highly scrutinized election process that resulted in a historic Supreme Court ruling annulling the presidential election results.
In honor of his legacy, Chebukati’s family has scheduled his burial for March 8, 2025, at his home in Kitale. A post-mortem examination is set to be conducted to provide further insights into the circumstances surrounding his death.
As the country mourns his demise, tributes continue to pour in from leaders and citizens alike, recognizing his contributions to Kenya’s electoral integrity and democracy.
