Former Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) chairman Wafula Chebukati has passed away at the age of 64. Chebukati died on Thursday, February 20, at 11 p.m. while undergoing treatment at a hospital in Nairobi. The exact cause of his illness remains private, though he had been in the Intensive Care Unit for nearly a week.
Former President Uhuru Kenyatta led the country in mourning Chebukati, acknowledging his significant role in shaping Kenya’s electoral landscape. In his condolence message to the family, Uhuru praised Chebukati for his unwavering resilience in navigating the complex challenges that came with his position.
“It is with deep sadness that I have learned of the passing of Wafula Chebukati, former Chairman of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC). Throughout his time in office, he played a pivotal role in shaping our nation’s electoral landscape, often navigating intricate challenges with remarkable resilience,” Uhuru said.
He further expressed his sympathies to the bereaved family, friends, and colleagues, praying for their comfort as they come to terms with the loss.
Chebukati served as the IEBC chairman for a full six-year term, from 2017 to 2023. His tenure was marked by overseeing three crucial elections: the 2017 General Election, the October 2017 repeat presidential election, and the 2022 General Election. His leadership was defined by both controversy and steadfast commitment, as he handled high-stakes electoral disputes and political tensions that shaped Kenya’s democratic processes.
Before taking up his role at IEBC, Chebukati was a seasoned lawyer with 37 years of experience. He ran his own law firm for two decades, specializing in corporate law, commercial law, corporate governance, and dispute resolution. He was also briefly involved in politics, having been a member of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) before resigning to apply for the IEBC chairmanship.
Despite his public role, Chebukati was known for maintaining a private family life. He was married to Mary Chebukati and had children, though he kept details about his personal life away from the limelight.
His passing marks the end of an era in Kenya’s electoral management. Tributes from leaders across the country continue to pour in, reflecting on his contributions and the legacy he leaves behind in strengthening Kenya’s democratic institutions.
