President William Ruto has expressed admiration for former Independent Electoral Boundaries Commission Chairman Wafula Chebukati, terming him a history maker and a man of integrity who could not be compromised.
While speaking during Chebukati’s send off on Saturday at his farm in Kiminini, Ruto commended him for his leadership and personality, adding that Chebukati could not be intimated or threatened.
"Kuna saa zingine inasemekana mtu amepata kazi, lakini kuna wakati mwingine inasemekana kazi imepata mtu na huyo ndio alikuwa Chebukati, Kazi ilimpata mwenyewe," Ruto said.
(There are occassions when someone finds a job, but other times a job finds a person and that was Chebukati)
The Head of State further spoke highly of Chebukati's ability to discharge his constitutional, legal and moral responsibilities and duties with great distinction while serving as the electoral agency boss.
“Throughout his life, he demonstrated great leadership and great integrity. Wafula was intelligent, courageous, and a man of integrity. He is a hero of our nation, he could not be confused because he was intelligent,” President Ruto said.
Ruto also hailed Chebukati as a pioneer, a figure of historical significance and a national hero.
“A great man, Wafula Chebukati, has rested. He was a
history-maker, a ground-breaker and a hero of our nation who put the country
first. Decent and diligent, Chebukati leaves behind an extraordinary legacy of
distinguished service to the public,” the head of stated on his social media
handle.
“Goodbye, Chairman!”
Ruto also paid tribute to the former chairman’s family commending him for his contributions in safeguarding them while ensuring they were raised well.
The President was accompanied by a section of other leaders including the National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, Senate Speaker Amason Kingi, Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya among others during the burial
ceremony which saw emotional tributes pour in.
Chebukati passed away on February 20, 2025, after a prolonged illness while receiving treatment at a hospital in Nairobi.
President William Ruto conforts Emmanuel Chebukati during his father's burial in Kiminini, Trans Nzoia county, March 8, 2025. /PCS
