By Ernest Bandi
Nairobi — Nominees to the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) put forward by President William Ruto appeared before the Justice and Legal Affairs Committee at County Hall, Parliament Buildings, for vetting on Friday.
Among those vetted were Erastus Ethakon, nominated as the chairperson, and six others nominated as commissioners: Ann Nderitu, Moses Mukhwana, Mary Caren Sorobit, Hassan Noor, Francis Odhiambo, and Fahima Abdallah.
Erastus Ethakon was the first to appear before the panel. He revealed that he was initially hesitant to apply for the IEBC chairmanship due to the controversies surrounding the position. However, he was encouraged by young people at a cybercafé in South Africa, where he usually photocopies his documents.
"At first, I was reluctant to apply for this position given the negativity and controversies surrounding it. However, while I was at a cybercafé in South Africa, some young people encouraged me to submit my application. They believed I had what it takes to lead this institution," said Ethakon.
He assured the committee that he would uphold the Constitution and follow all legal procedures to deliver free, fair, and credible elections if approved as chairperson.
Commissioner nominee Hassan Noor highlighted his deep experience in public administration and election-related logistics.
"I bring unmatched geographic knowledge of this country. As a former DO, DC, and PC, I have provided backroom support for elections from both management and security standpoints," said Noor.
Ann Nderitu, who confirmed that she still serves as the Registrar of Political Parties, emphasized her commitment to teamwork and the rule of law.
"I am a team player. It will be very easy to work as a commissioner because I believe an institution is only as good as how well the team works together," Nderitu stated.
Moses Mukhwana defended his past legal representation of the Amani National Congress (ANC), clarifying that it was strictly professional and should not be seen as a political bias that could disqualify him from the IEBC role.
Mary Caren Sorobit noted that her track record at the Kenya National Highways Authority (KENHA) proves her impartiality and commitment to fairness.
“I have never been biased, even in my duties at KENHA. I always discharge my responsibilities fairly and according to the law,” she told the panel.
Francis Odhiambo echoed the sentiments of the other nominees, promising that if appointed, he would help deliver a credible electoral process in line with the law.
The vetting process comes at a critical time as Kenya prepares to restructure its electoral commission ahead of the next general elections.
Let me know if you'd like this edited for a print newspaper style, TV script, or translated into Swahili.
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