As Kenya steadily marches closer to its next general election, a critical institution remains in disarray: the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission.
The resignations and expirations of terms of several commissioners at the last election have left the country in a precarious position, highlighting the urgent need for the prompt appointment of a fully constituted electoral agency.
This issue transcends mere administrative logistics; it strikes at the heart of Kenya's democratic integrity and stability. Kenya, like many other countries, relies on the IEBC to oversee its elections and ensure that they are free, fair, and credible.
The electoral commission, over the years, has been marred by controversies that have shaken public trust in its ability to oversee free and fair elections.
From the infamous events of 2007, when the announcement of the presidential results by then-chairman Samuel Kivuitu plunged the nation into chaos, to the more recent resignations following the last election, the need for a robust, functional electoral commission cannot be overstated.
At the last election, it was evident that there were disagreements among the commissioners, and that they were unable to work together. However, the resilience of the IEBC chairman ensured that the country did not descend into anarchy.
The resignation of key commissioners post-election, coupled with the expiry of terms of others, has left the IEBC without the requisite quorum to carry out its crucial mandate effectively. This void directly impacts the nation's governance and political landscape, with certain constituencies now deprived of representation due to delays in holding by-elections—a direct consequence of the electoral agency's current state of limbo.
We find ourselves less than three years away from the next electoral cycle. This timeframe demands decisive action in reconstituting the IEBC. Failing to do so promptly risks jeopardising the entire electoral process, casting shadows over its legitimacy and integrity.
History has shown that delayed appointments or last-minute constitution of the commission often result in heightened political tensions and suspicions, leading to potential electoral disputes and unrest.
The importance of a functional and credible electoral commission cannot be overstated. The IEBC holds the key to upholding Kenya's democratic principles and ensuring that the will of the people is reflected accurately through the ballot box.
A compromised or incomplete electoral commission undermines the very foundation of our democracy and erodes public confidence in our electoral process.
Moreover, the absence of a fully operational IEBC not only affects the execution of elections but also impedes critical electoral reforms and preparations. Key decisions and policies necessary for a smooth electoral process cannot be made in the absence of a quorum, creating a governance vacuum that weakens our democratic institutions.
The urgency of the situation demands bipartisan cooperation and swift action from all stakeholders. Political will must be mobilised to expedite the appointment process and prioritise the selection of competent, impartial commissioners who command public trust. This process should be transparent, inclusive and guided by the principles of fairness and accountability.
The process of appointing IEBC commissioners must be shielded from political interference or manipulation. The integrity of our electoral system hinges on the independence and impartiality of the commission. Therefore, appointments should be based on merit, experience and a demonstrated commitment to upholding the rule of law.
Kenya stands at a critical juncture in its democratic journey. The decisions made today regarding the reconstitution of the electoral agency will reverberate through the upcoming electoral cycle and beyond. We cannot afford to repeat the mistakes of the past or allow partisan interests to undermine our democratic ideals.
The expedited appointment of IEBC commissioners is not merely a bureaucratic formality but a foundational pillar of our democratic society. Failure to act swiftly risks undermining the credibility of our electoral process and jeopardising the hard-earned peace and stability that Kenya enjoys.
Let us prioritise the national interest above all else and ensure that our electoral commission is equipped to uphold the democratic aspirations of all Kenyans. The time to act is now.
It is, therefore, imperative that the appointment of IEBC commissioners is expedited. This will ensure that the IEBC is fully constituted and able to carry out its mandate. It will also ensure that the country is able to hold credible elections in case the need arises.
