IEBC Selection Panel: Behind the Scenes of Kenya's Election Process




The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) is the body responsible for conducting elections in Kenya. The IEBC selection panel is tasked with interviewing and selecting the commissioners who will lead this critical institution. As we approach the next general election in 2027, the selection of these commissioners is more important than ever.

Having closely followed the work of the IEBC over the years, and having witnessed firsthand the impact of their decisions on the country, I believe it's essential to shed light on the process of selecting these commissioners. The IEBC's independence, impartiality, and professionalism are paramount to ensuring free and fair elections, and this all starts with the selection of the right people.

Getting to Know the Selection Panel

The IEBC selection panel is composed of seven members appointed by the President, with the approval of Parliament. These members are drawn from various backgrounds, including law, academia, civil society, and the clergy. They are tasked with the responsibility of ensuring that the commissioners selected meet the criteria set out in the Constitution and the IEBC Act.

The current selection panel has a diverse range of experience and expertise. It includes:

  • Dr. Elizabeth Muli, a lawyer and former chairperson of the National Gender and Equality Commission
  • Mr. David Mwaure, a human rights activist and member of the National Human Rights Commission
  • Mr. Reuben Kigame, a gospel musician and former presidential candidate
  • Mr. Jared Omolo, a lawyer and former commissioner at the Salaries and Remuneration Commission
  • Ms. Wambui Nyutu, a human resource professional and former chairperson of the Kenya Institute of Management
  • Bishop David Oginde, the Presiding Bishop of the Pentecostal Assemblies of God
  • Ms. Irene Keino, a lawyer and former Director General of the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics
The Selection Process

The selection process is rigorous and transparent. The panel advertises the positions and receives applications from interested candidates. These applications are screened, and a shortlist of qualified candidates is drawn up.

Shortlisted candidates are invited for interviews, where they are assessed on their knowledge of the Constitution, the IEBC Act, and electoral processes. The panel also considers the candidates' integrity, impartiality, and experience.

After the interviews, the panel submits a list of recommended candidates to the President. The President then appoints the commissioners, who are subject to approval by Parliament.

Challenges and Controversies

The IEBC selection process has not been without its challenges and controversies. In the past, there have been allegations of political interference and manipulation, as certain individuals and groups have sought to influence the outcome.

However, the current selection panel has vowed to be independent and impartial in its work. They have emphasized the importance of selecting commissioners who will uphold the IEBC's mandate and ensure the integrity of the electoral process.


The selection of the IEBC commissioners is a critical step in ensuring free and fair elections in Kenya. The current selection panel has a diverse range of experience and expertise, and they have pledged to be independent and impartial in their work.

Let us all support the panel in ensuring that the best candidates are selected to lead the IEBC. This will go a long way in strengthening our democracy and guaranteeing the credibility of our elections.

As we look ahead to 2027, let us all commit to playing a role in ensuring that the IEBC selection process is transparent, credible, and free from interference. Only then can we truly have an electoral process that reflects the will of the people.