Chebukati: Life, times of controversial ex-IEBC boss; a journey through Kenya’s electoral landscape

Wafula Chebukati’s name has become synonymous with Kenya’s recent electoral history.

As the former chairman of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), his journey is marked by resilience, controversy, and an unwavering dedication to public service.

From his humble beginnings in Bungoma to navigating the high-stakes world of national elections, Chebukati’s story provides an in-depth look at one of the most complex roles in Kenya’s political landscape.

Early Life and Education

Wafula Chebukati was born in 1961 in Bungoma County, Kenya. Growing up in western Kenya, he attended local primary schools that laid the foundation for his academic and professional pursuits.

Though details of his early schooling are scarce, his family and community values deeply influenced him, instilling a strong sense of integrity and responsibility.

After completing primary school, he joined Starehe Boys Centre in Nairobi—one of the country’s most prestigious schools renowned for its emphasis on leadership, discipline, and high academic standards. Here, he first engaged in the concepts of law, governance, and ethics that would later shape his career.

Chebukati’s journey continued at the University of Nairobi, where he pursued a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree.

His passion for justice and governance only grew, and after graduating, he joined the Kenya School of Law to complete his legal training. Later, he furthered his education with a Master’s degree in Business Administration (MBA) from Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT), blending his legal expertise with insights into business and management.

Law and Public Advocacy

Upon completing his education, Chebukati was admitted to the Kenyan bar and began a successful career as an advocate, eventually founding his own law firm.

Specializing in public law, he developed a reputation as a meticulous and fair-minded advocate, handling cases that often involved public policy and governance issues.

His years in law shaped his abilities in mediation and conflict resolution, earning him respect across Kenya’s legal community. Chebukati’s commitment to justice and transparency also led him into electoral law cases, which would later become central in his role at the IEBC.

Appointment as IEBC Chairman

In January 2017, Wafula Chebukati was appointed chairman of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission.

His appointment came at a challenging time, as Kenya was preparing for the highly anticipated 2017 general election. Tasked with overseeing free, fair, and credible elections, Chebukati’s tenure began amid widespread public and political scrutiny.

The 2017 general election became one of Kenya’s most controversial. Following irregularities and challenges to the results, the Supreme Court made a historic decision to annul the presidential election, marking the first time such an annulment had occurred in Kenya’s history.

Despite intense criticism, Chebukati led the IEBC through a repeat election, even as the political climate grew more polarized.

Throughout this period, Chebukati faced immense pressure from both the public and political stakeholders, navigating through accusations of bias, internal commission conflicts, and scrutiny over the IEBC’s transparency.

His tenure illustrated the complex realities of electoral oversight, where decisions impact not just political careers but the entire nation’s stability.

Legacy and Impact

In 2022, Chebukati again found himself at the helm during Kenya’s general election. Like in 2017, this election was marked by tension and scrutiny, culminating in a Supreme Court ruling that upheld the results.

Despite the challenges, Chebukati’s commitment to following the rule of law and his resilience under pressure left a lasting impact on Kenya’s electoral landscape.

Opinions on his legacy remain mixed. Supporters credit him for his steadfastness and dedication to the IEBC’s mandate, while critics question the commission’s internal conflicts and transparency.

Nonetheless, Chebukati’s leadership during Kenya’s recent elections has influenced ongoing discussions on electoral reform and governance in Kenya.

Life After IEBC

After concluding his role at the IEBC in early 2023, Wafula Chebukati continues to be an influential voice in governance and electoral reforms.

His experience has given him a unique perspective on Kenya’s political processes, and he remains a key figure in discussions surrounding the need for transparent and credible elections.

Wafula Chebukati’s journey from Bungoma to the IEBC reflects both the personal and professional challenges of upholding democracy in Kenya.

His story is a testament to the resilience required to lead in the public sector, especially within a volatile political environment.

Chebukati’s tenure at the IEBC remains a point of reflection for Kenya’s ongoing journey toward electoral integrity and governance reform.

Through his contributions, he has left an indelible mark on the country’s electoral history, reminding Kenyans of the importance of fairness, transparency, and accountability in the democratic process.