Kibwezi West MP Mwengi Mutuse has raised concerns over what he terms as deliberate efforts by some leaders to stall the reconstitution of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC). Speaking during a burial in Kibwezi, Makueni County, Mutuse accused certain leaders of exploiting the judiciary to create delays, asserting that these actions are politically motivated.
“We have seen a monopoly. There are people going to court to prevent the reconstitution of IEBC so that they can begin attacking the government,” Mutuse said. “Those involved must declare their intentions because we needed IEBC formed yesterday. We know your agenda, and we will not allow you to derail Kenyans.”
Mutuse emphasized the urgency of appointing new IEBC commissioners to ensure the country is adequately prepared for the 2027 General Election. According to him, the delays are detrimental to national progress, including conducting by-elections in constituencies lacking elected representatives.
“The IEBC selection panel should be allowed to carry out its mandate without interference. Reconstituting the commission is long overdue, and it is critical for Kenya’s democracy,” he added. “I will go to court to ensure the cases delaying this process are concluded so that Kenyans can have an IEBC to prepare for future elections.”
Court Injunction Stalling Progress
The reconstitution of the IEBC has faced significant hurdles, including a current injunction at the Court of Appeal. The injunction challenges the establishment of the IEBC selection panel, which is mandated to identify new commissioners for the electoral body.
Wiper party leader Kalonzo Musyoka has criticized the injunction, accusing the state of using proxies to delay the process. According to Kalonzo, the state is intentionally derailing the formation of the IEBC to serve its own interests.
“They have wasted a lot of time. Let them withdraw the case that is state-sponsored through a judge in Kiambu. That was a tactic to delay reconstitution of the panel and the IEBC,” Kalonzo stated. “The ball is in William Ruto’s court to tell his proxies to withdraw the matter in the Court of Appeal.”
Political Wrangles in the Selection Panel
The formation of the nine-member IEBC selection panel has also been hampered by internal disagreements within the Azimio la Umoja coalition. The wrangles center on the coalition’s National Liberal Party (NLP) and Wiper party, which are at odds over their representative to the panel.
The NLP has nominated Dr. Augustus Muli, while the Wiper party has proposed Koki Muli. This stalemate has further complicated the already delayed reconstitution process.
Calls for Swift Resolution
Both Mutuse and Kalonzo have called for expedited resolution of the disputes surrounding the IEBC reconstitution. Mutuse highlighted the critical role of the IEBC in maintaining democratic governance and warned that further delays could undermine public trust in the electoral process.
Kalonzo, on the other hand, urged the state to refrain from using judicial avenues to delay the process, asserting that timely formation of the IEBC is essential for the country’s stability and governance.
The IEBC reconstitution has become a contentious political issue, reflecting the broader struggles between rival political factions. With the 2027 General Election on the horizon, there is increasing pressure on the government and stakeholders to resolve these disputes and pave the way for a functional electoral body.
Looking Ahead
As the political and legal battles over the IEBC reconstitution persist, the focus remains on the Court of Appeal’s decision and the ability of political leaders to reach a consensus on the selection panel. While Mutuse and Kalonzo continue to voice their frustrations, Kenyans eagerly await the formation of a competent IEBC capable of steering the nation through credible elections.
The clock is ticking, and stakeholders must prioritize resolving these issues to safeguard Kenya’s democratic future.
