Former president Uhuru Kenyatta mourned Wafula Chebukati saying he played a pivotal role in shaping our nation’s electoral landscape, often navigating intricate challenges with remarkable resilience.
It is Uhuru who appointed him as the chairman of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission in January 17, 2017.
“Throughout his time in office, he played a pivotal role in shaping our nation’s electoral landscape, often navigating intricate challenges with remarkable resilience,” said Uhuru in a message.
Former Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka also mourned Chebukati.
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi said Chebukati was a man of integrity and conviction who dedicated his life to upholding democracy, serving Kenya with diligence and an unwavering sense of duty.
“I will always remember him as a man of resilience and wisdom, who navigated challenging moments with courage, fairness, and an unshakable commitment to transparency.
His contributions to electoral governance will remain a lasting inspiration to those who champion justice and good leadership,” he said.
IEBC CEO Hussein Marjan said the cCommission recounts with the rest of Kenyans, the good memories and acknowledge the impact that Chebukati had as he diligently served the office.
“He was appointed and assumed office on January 17, 2017, a position he held until January 17, 2023, becoming the first Chairperson of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to successfully complete the 6-year constitutional term.”
“During his tenure, Chebukati oversaw the conduct of two (2) General Elections in 2017 and 2022 and one (1) Fresh Presidential Election in 2017, making him stand out as a beacon of hope illuminating the tireless dedication to the rule of law,” he said in a statement.
He said Chebukati’s commendable achievements led the commission be awarded the winner of the Election Management Award and runners up in the Electoral Ergonomic Award during the 19th International Electoral Awards Ceremony in Lisbon, Portugal in 2023.
“The IEBC family has lost a great leader who was full of humour, listened keenly on important issues affecting the delivery of the Commission mandate and a man measured in words, who truly understood the sensitivity of his office.”
Chebukati died Thursday February 20 at the Nairobi Hospital.
His family moved the body to the Lee Funeral Home pending burial plans.
