New IEBC Chairperson Erastus Ethekon has pledged to serve Kenyans with integrity and ensure free and credible elections.
Speaking after officially taking office, Ethekon emphasized that his top priority is upholding the public’s trust in the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC). “My first loyalty is to Kenyans,” he declared, stressing the importance of running transparent and fair electoral processes.
His appointment follows a legal challenge that sought to block his leadership, but the High Court has since ruled in his favour. In a ruling delivered in July, the court dismissed a petition dated May 13, 2025, which had contested the legality of his appointment and that of other commissioners. The ruling stated that the petition lacked merit and should be dismissed.
As a result, the interim conservatory orders issued on May 29, 2025, which had temporarily halted the commissioners from assuming office, were lifted. The court also quashed Gazette Notices Numbers 7724 and 7725, dated June 10, 2025, which had been part of the challenge against their appointments.
Ethekon's appointment, along with that of six other commissioners, had earlier been confirmed by President William Ruto through official gazette notices. The commissioners were sworn in following the resolution of the legal issues that had delayed their assumption of office.
Now officially in charge, Ethekon has called for unity and focus within the IEBC as it prepares for the 2027 General Elections. He has assured Kenyans that the commission will work independently and free from external influence, in line with the Constitution.
He said the IEBC’s mission moving forward is to restore faith in electoral systems, especially after past disputes have raised public concerns over the credibility of elections in the country.
The new chair has also acknowledged the tough journey leading to the formation of the current commission but expressed confidence that the team will deliver on its mandate.
As Kenya looks ahead to the next electoral cycle, Ethekon’s pledge signals a renewed commitment to democratic processes and public accountability.
Politics
Sifuna Warns He’ll Leave ODM if It Supports Ruto in 2027
Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has threatened to leave the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) if the party chooses to support President William Ruto’s re-election bid in 2027.
New Bill to Enforce Stricter Budget Rules in All Counties
A new Bill passed by the National Assembly aims to tighten financial rules in counties and improve accountability in spending.
Amina Halake Takes Over Dida's Party, Eyes 2027 Presidency
Amina Halake, wife of former presidential candidate Abduba Dida, has declared her intention to run for president in 2027, stepping into the political spotlight through a party her husband once led.
Obi Accuses Tinubu of Misleading Nigerians With False Economic Data
Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has accused President Bola Tinubu of using false statistics to cover up Nigeria’s deepening economic crisis.
Sudan Rejects RSF’s Move to Form a Rival Government
Sudan’s government has strongly rejected the formation of a “parallel government” by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), calling it an act of defiance and a threat to national stability.
Kenyan Activist Mwabili Mwagodi Reported Abducted in Tanzania
Kenyan activist Mwabili Mwagodi has gone missing in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, in what is being described as a suspected abduction.
Babu Owino Vows to Run for Nairobi Governor With or Without ODM
Embakasi East MP Babu Owino has announced that he will run for Nairobi governor in 2027, whether or not he secures the ODM party ticket.
Ruto Slams Maraga Over Failed State Claims and Leadership Bid
President William Ruto has sharply criticised former Chief Justice David Maraga for calling Kenya a failed state, questioning his credibility and motives.
Adamu Garba Warns Tinubu Is Being Misled by Sycophants
President Bola Tinubu is being misled by those around him who pretend everything is fine, according to Adamu Garba, a member of Nigeria’s ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
NCIC Removes Wambui Nyutu Over Partisan Politics Breach
The National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) has removed Vice Chairperson Wambui Nyutu from her position, citing repeated involvement in partisan political activity that violated her oath of office and legal responsibilities.
South African President Fires Minister Over Graft Allegations
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has dismissed Higher Education Minister Nobuhle Nkabane following corruption allegations and pressure from within his coalition government.
Naivasha MP Jayne Kihara Taken to Court After Police Detention
Naivasha Member of Parliament Jayne Kihara was presented in court after spending the night in police custody, according to her lawyer.
France Ends Decades-Long Military Presence in Senegal
French troops have been stationed in Senegal since the country gained independence in 1960, but that presence has now officially come to an end.
Gachagua Confirms Release of DCP Youth Leaders on Cash Bail
Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua has confirmed that two of the party’s youth leaders, James KaWanjiru and Wanjiku Thiga, have been released after being arrested over the June 25 protests.
Court Clears Ex-Ekiti Governor Fayose of Fraud Charges
Former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose has been cleared of all money laundering and fraud charges by a Federal High Court sitting in Lagos.