Chief Justice Martha Koome has emphasised that the role given to the Independent and Electoral Boundaries Commission (IEBC) selection panel will shape the country’s democracy.
She stated that the future of the country’s democracy depends on the integrity of the men and women the panel selects to lead the IEBC.
“The commissioners you appoint must be individuals of untainted credibility—committed to independence, impartiality and the principles enshrined in our Constitution,” she said
Koome noted that the IEBC is not just another government agency rather it is the custodian of the country’s electoral integrity, and its composition must reflect the highest standards of professionalism and credibility.
The CJ made the remarks on Friday during the swearing-in of the two remaining members of the selection panel, Fatuma Saman and Carolene Kituku.
She noted that the credibility of elections defines the stability of a nation, adding that history has shown that when elections are free, fair and transparent, the country flourishes.
“However, when they are mismanaged, the consequences are severe, threatening national unity and public trust,” she added.
She urged all institutions and stakeholders involved in the 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 noted.
Koome pointed out to Saman and Kituku that their oath of office is not a mere formality but a pledge of service to the people of Kenya.
She noted that it demands that they act with unwavering integrity, resisting any influence that seeks to compromise the credibility of the process.
“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 said.
“Kenyans are watching, and the trust they place in our institutions will be determined by the integrity of the choices you make.”
“The weight of this task is not just in the selection process you will oversee, but in the lasting impact your decisions will have on Kenya’s democracy.”
She reiterated that the panel’s duty is clear, to identify leaders of unshakable integrity, impartiality and competence—men and women who will inspire trust in electoral process and ensure that every Kenyan can participate in free, fair and transparent elections.
She directed them to resist any pressure, influence or partisan interests that seek to derail the recruitment process.
“Your guiding principle must be the public interest—nothing more, nothing less,” she said.
“The oath you have taken today is a solemn pledge to serve Kenya with unwavering commitment to the rule of law and the Constitution. The decisions you make will shape not just the 2027 elections, but the 7 future of our democracy”.
She added, “Rise to this occasion with honour,
patriotism, and a deep sense of duty. Let this process be a beacon of
integrity, setting a standard for all institutions to follow.
