The Elections Observation Group (ELOG) has raised serious concerns over the sudden inclusion of six additional candidates in the ongoing vetting process for the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) commissioners.
In a strongly worded communiqué released on Wednesday, ELOG questioned the transparency and legality of the move, citing a lack of public explanation or procedural clarity. The number of candidates for the commissioner positions jumped from 105 to 111, prompting observers and civil society actors to demand accountability.
“This abrupt development raises questions around transparency and accountability,” read part of the statement. “The Selection Panel must uphold the integrity of the process and explain how and why these six new applicants were included.”
The six individuals added to the list are Hassan Noor Hassan, Jibril Maalim Mohamed, Michaels Ben Oliewo, Charles Kipyegon Mutai, Stephen Kibet Ngano, and Joel Mwita Daniels. Their inclusion came without prior public notice or justification, sparking suspicion over the integrity of the recruitment process.
Efforts by Citizen TV to get a clear response from the Selection Panel were unsuccessful, with the panel remaining largely unresponsive. Chairperson Nelson Makanda offered a vague justification, suggesting the names were previously omitted by mistake.
“The mandate to shortlist belongs to the panel,” Makanda said. “The nation should wait for the final list of 11 nominees to judge us. We shall do Kenyans proud.”
However, ELOG insists that any recruitment to such a critical institution must be guided strictly by law and carried out in the full glare of public scrutiny. They warned that any deviation threatens public trust in electoral institutions.
The interviews, which are expected to conclude by May 12, will lead to the submission of two names for the chairperson position and nine for commissioner roles. President William Ruto will then appoint the final chair and six commissioners.
With Kenya’s next electoral cycle on the horizon, the credibility of this process could prove pivotal in shaping public confidence in the IEBC’s ability to deliver free and fair elections.
