Wafula Chebukati, former IEBC Chairman is dead
Wafula Wanyonyi Chebukati, the former chairman of Kenya’s Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), has died at the age of 63 after a long battle with a critical illness. He was declared clinically dead at a local hospital leaving his family to grapple with the heartbreaking decision of whether to discontinue life-support measures.
Chebukati’s career was marked by his commitment to electoral integrity and resilience particularly during tumultuous times. Appointed by former President Uhuru Kenyatta in 2017, he oversaw two landmark elections; those of 2017 and 2022 that significantly influenced Kenya’s political landscape. Remarkably, Chebukati became the first IEBC chair to complete a full six-year term retiring in January 2023 amidst challenges that included internal divisions and intense external scrutiny.
In a statement expressing his condolences, President William Ruto described Chebukati as a “principled and diligent leader who served the nation with integrity,” adding, “His death is a great loss to our country. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends during this difficult time.”
Born in 1961 in Bungoma County, Chebukati held a law degree from the University of Nairobi and earned a Master of Business Administration from Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology. He practiced law for over three decades, founding Wanyonyi & Company Advocates in 1986 before co-founding Cootow & Associates Advocates in 2006. He stepped away from private practice upon his appointment as IEBC chairman.
Chebukati’s tenure was not without its controversies. He presided over the 2017 presidential election, which was annulled by the Supreme Court, prompting a repeat election. His announcement of William Ruto as the President-elect in 2022 led to dissent within the commission with four commissioners vocally opposing his declaration. Amidst these challenges, he was recognized for his public service with the Elder of the Order of the Golden Heart (EGH), one of Kenya’s highest civilian honors.
In addition to his professional accomplishments, Chebukati was a passionate golfer and held leadership positions at Mombasa and Nyali Golf Clubs as well as serving on the committee of the Kenya Golf Union.
Chebukati’s death is expected to prompt reflections on his legacy in Kenya’s electoral history as the nation considers the progress and obstacles facing its democratic processes. His family, colleagues and the broader community mourn the loss of a leader who tirelessly aimed to uphold the integrity of Kenya’s electoral system.
