The National Assembly has unanimously approved Erastus Edung Ethekon as the new Chairperson of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), marking a significant step in the reconstitution of Kenya’s electoral body ahead of the 2027 General Elections. The House also approved the appointments of Ann Njeri Nderitu, Moses Alutalala Mukhwana, Mary Karen Sorobit, Hassan Noor Hassan, Francis Odhiambo Aduol, and Fahima Araphat Abdallah as IEBC Commissioners.
Erastus Edung Ethekon: A Career in Public Service and Electoral Management
Erastus Edung Ethekon is a seasoned public administrator and governance expert with over two decades of experience in electoral management, public sector reform, and civic engagement. Before his appointment as IEBC Chair, Ethekon served as a senior advisor on governance and electoral processes for various regional and international organizations. He is recognized for his role in strengthening electoral systems and promoting transparency in election management across East Africa.
Ethekon previously held leadership positions at the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights and worked as a consultant for the African Union on democratic governance. He is widely respected for his commitment to institutional integrity, stakeholder engagement, and the advancement of credible, peaceful elections.
New IEBC Team to Steer Electoral Reforms
The approval of Ethekon and the six commissioners comes at a critical time, just 18 months before Kenya’s next General Elections. The reconstituted IEBC is expected to spearhead key reforms, oversee voter registration, and ensure the integrity of the electoral process.
Parliament’s unanimous vote signals broad political support for the new team, which is tasked with rebuilding public trust in the commission following the previous panel’s disbandment. The new commissioners bring diverse expertise in law, public administration, civic education, and conflict resolution.
The appointments are seen as a crucial step in restoring confidence in Kenya’s electoral system and enhancing the credibility of upcoming polls.
Background:
The IEBC is mandated to conduct and supervise referenda and elections to any elective body or office established by the Constitution, and to ensure that such elections are free, fair, and transparent. The new appointments are expected to accelerate preparations for the 2027 General Elections and address longstanding challenges in Kenya’s electoral landscape.
