Ruto Assents to IEBC Bill with Raila, Kalonzo in Attendance

President William Ruto has officially enacted the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (Amendment) Bill, 2024.

The bill was on Tuesday signed into law at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre in Nairobi with notable political figures in attendance, including opposition leaders Raila Odinga and Kalonzo Musyoka, as well as Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and parliamentary leaders. This legislative action paves the way for the formation of a selection panel tasked with recruiting new commissioners for the electoral body. President Ruto emphasizes the importance of this step, stating that it fulfils one of the key recommendations of the National Dialogue Committee (NADCO). He affirms the IEBC's crucial role in upholding democratic principles through transparent, impartial, and efficient management of elections at various levels.

The new law introduces several changes to the IEBC's structure and requirements. The selection panel's membership has been expanded from seven to nine members to ensure a broader representation of stakeholders and interest groups. Aspiring IEBC commissioners must now demonstrate proven knowledge and a minimum of ten years of relevant experience. The professional qualifications for commissioners have been broadened to include expertise in accounting and information and communication technology. Additionally, the secretary's term has been extended to four years with the possibility of a single renewal.

The IEBC bill, which emerged from the NADCO report's recommendations, was a focal point of recent anti-government protests. Young Kenyans advocated for the establishment of the electoral commission in preparation for the 2027 General Election. The NADCO report itself was the result of a bipartisan effort involving leaders from both President Ruto's Kenya Kwanza Alliance and Mr Odinga's Azimio la Umoja One Kenya Coalition. President Ruto has called on Parliament to expedite the implementation of other bills recommended by the NADCO report, recognizing the urgent need for governance reforms in response to public demands.

The absence of leadership and decision-makers had severely hampered the IEBC's operations and addressing these concerns could potentially alleviate ongoing demonstrations. Opposition leader Raila Odinga acknowledges that the newly enacted legislation is just one of many issues raised by the youth and outlined in the NADCO report. He emphasizes the need to address broader concerns such as employment, discrimination, corruption, and gender inequality. Kimani Ichung'wa highlights that the adoption of the IEBC bill underscores the importance of open dialogue in the country. He indicates that other bills resulting from this dialogue would be prioritized when Parliament reconvenes later this month.

Kalonzo Musyoka explains that their participation in government discussions was motivated by public concerns about alleged election rigging in 2022. The Wiper leader urges the government to give full attention to the issues raised by the youth and take appropriate action.