The Kenya Youth Organization (KYO) has called on the IEBC Selection Panel to reconsider the inclusion of Charles Nyachae in the race for the position of Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) chairperson, citing concerns over his integrity.
Nyachae is among 11 candidates shortlisted for the role, with interviews scheduled to begin on Monday, March 24, 2025. Other shortlisted candidates include former Judiciary Chief Registrar Anne Amadi, Abdulqadir Lorot Ramadhan, Edward Katama Ngeywa, Erastus Edung Ethekon, Francis Kakai Kissinger, Joy Brenda Masinde-Mdivo, Jacob Ngwele Muvengei, Lilian Wanjiku Manegene, Robert Akumu Asembo, and Saul Simiyu Wasilwa.
Ahead of the interviews, KYO submitted a formal memorandum to the Selection Panel, voicing objections to Nyachae’s candidacy.
In the document, the group highlighted concerns that Nyachae’s professional background and conduct may fall short of the standards set out in Chapter Six of the 2010 Constitution, which outlines integrity and ethical leadership requirements for public office holders.
KYO pointed to what they described as a lack of transparency in Nyachae’s past professional dealings, raising questions about his suitability for the critical role.
“The IEBC chairperson must be someone who commands public trust. Any perception of bias or unethical behavior risks compromising the commission’s credibility and the integrity of the electoral process,” KYO president Johnmark Ababu stated.
He added that the memorandum outlines several instances from Nyachae’s past engagements that have led to public doubts about his impartiality. Given the sensitivity of the position, the group argued that such concerns pose an unacceptable risk to the integrity of Kenya’s democracy.
KYO emphasized that candidates for such high-profile public roles must exhibit unwavering ethical standards in both their professional and personal lives.
The organisation expressed fears that Nyachae’s track record may not meet these rigorous constitutional demands, thereby calling into question his ability to discharge his duties impartially and without prejudice.
“The selection of a chairperson without a clear, proven record of impartiality could undermine public confidence in Kenya’s electoral system both at home and abroad,” Ababu warned.
KYO concluded by urging the Selection Panel to carefully weigh public concerns and ensure that the individual chosen to lead the IEBC is one who will inspire confidence and trust across all segments of the Kenyan population.
