Chief Justice Martha Koome has urged the nine members of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) selection panel to incorporate integrity and transparency in the process of recruitment of commissioners.
Speaking on Monday during the swearing-in ceremony of the members of the selection panel at the Supreme Court Building, she also urged them to conduct the recruitment with the utmost speed.
"Today, I urge all institutions and stakeholders involved in this process-Parliament, political actors, civil society and the public- to ensure that the recruitment of new IEBC Commissioners is conducted with speed, integrity, and transparency. The Kenyan people expect and deserve nothing less," she said.
Koome emphasised that the panel’s role went beyond legal obligations, noting that it was a solemn duty to safeguard the country’s democracy.
She warned the nine that their actions would have long-lasting implications for the credibility and stability of the country’s electoral processes, which in turn would impact the nation's unity and trust in governance.
The CJ noted that the IEBC’s credibility was foundational to the country's democratic health.
She pointed out that Kenya thrives when elections are free, fair, and transparent, however, when they are mismanaged, they risk undermining national unity.
"The future of Kenya’s democracy depends on the integrity of the men and women you select to lead the IEBC," she said.
She emphasised that the new commissioners must be individuals of untainted credibility and committed to the Constitution’s principles.
Koome also addressed the prolonged crisis the country has faced since January 2023, with the IEBC unable to function properly due to vacancies.
"For the past two years, Kenya has endured an unacceptable situation—an electoral commission without commissioners," she said.
"This is not just an administrative challenge—it is a democratic disruption."
The Chief Justice reinforced the judiciary's commitment to protecting the rule of law and safeguarding constitutional processes.
She highlighted that the judiciary has taken proactive steps to expedite the resolution of cases related to the constitution of the IEBC.
"Justice must never be an obstacle to progress; it must be the very foundation upon which a just and democratic society is built," Koome affirmed.
Koome told the panel that their decisions must be based purely on merit, resisting any outside pressures or political influences.
"Your guiding principle must be merit, and merit alone. The individuals you select must inspire confidence in the electoral system and uphold the values of transparency, accountability and inclusivity," she added.
She further stressed the importance of strong, independent institutions in the country’s democracy.
"The IEBC must be allowed to function independently, free from political or external interference," she stated, urging the panel to keep the public interest at the heart of the recruitment process.
She emphasised that the panel's work would not only affect the 2027 elections but would shape the future of Kenya’s democratic practices.
"Let this process be a beacon of integrity, setting a standard for all institutions to follow," Koome urged.
