National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula and other senior political leaders have come out strongly in defense of the ongoing Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) recruitment process, urging Kenyans to uphold the integrity of constitutional institutions.
Speaking at a fundraiser in St. Michaels Kamelilo School, Nandi County, Wetang’ula emphasized that the IEBC recruitment is a parliamentary process spearheaded by the Justice and Legal Affairs Committee (JLAC), not a presidential initiative as some critics have claimed.
“This process is transparent and constitutional. If any Kenyan has a concern, let them submit a memorandum to JLAC. Parliament, not the President, has the final say on these appointments,” Wetang’ula clarified.
His remarks come amid increasing scrutiny and political tension over President William Ruto’s recent nomination of Erastus Edung Ethekon as the new IEBC chairperson following the death of former chair Wafula Chebukati in February.
Ruto also proposed six commissioners from diverse regions, a move welcomed by allies but criticized by the opposition.
Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah warned against tribal rhetoric dominating the discourse, stating, “Let’s rise above ethnic politics and look at the bigger national picture.”
Echoing these sentiments, Majority Whip Sylvanus Osoro dismissed accusations against government development efforts as “baseless complaints,” stressing that the IEBC’s role is to act as a neutral referee.
Tinderet MP Julius Melly also weighed in, assuring Kenyans that the recruitment process includes adequate checks and balances. “It is misleading to suggest that the President is manipulating the system,” he said.
The leaders called on Kenyans to support independent institutions and avoid politicizing recruitment processes, urging unity ahead of future electoral milestones.
