Wafula Chebukati, the former Chairman of Kenya’s Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), has passed away at the age of 62. The news was confirmed by his son, Emmanuel Chebukati, who revealed that his father died in a Nairobi hospital after battling an illness for about a week. Chebukati had been receiving intensive care treatment prior to his death.
Chebukati served as the Chairman of the IEBC from January 2017 until January 17, 2023. During his tenure, he oversaw Kenya’s highly significant general elections in both 2017 and 2022. Notably, he was at the helm during the 2022 election when he declared William Ruto as the winner with 50.49% of the votes, while Raila Odinga secured 48.5%. The announcement triggered disputes within the Commission and sparked internal divisions.
Kenyan President William Ruto expressed his condolences, calling Chebukati’s death a great loss for the country. “I have received with deep sorrow the news of the passing of the former Chairman of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission, Wafula Chebukati. His death is a great loss to our nation. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends during this difficult time. May he rest in peace,” Ruto said.
Chebukati’s leadership will be remembered for his critical role in overseeing the controversial electoral processes in Kenya, and his impact on the political landscape is expected to be felt for years to come.