EDITORIAL: Let’s prioritize reconstitution of IEBC to safeguard democracy

National NewsNews

The current impasse surrounding the reconstitution of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) demands urgent attention and action.

The absence of an electoral commission for over a year raises significant concerns, especially as the country approaches a critical deadline for the delimitation of constituency boundaries, as outlined in Article 89 of the constitution.

The looming constitutional crisis is not only a threat to the democratic process but also undermines the rule of law. It is alarming that politicians, despite their differences, seem united in their choice to ignore the impending deadline and the constitutional requirement for constituency boundary delimitation.

This intentional disregard for the law sets a dangerous precedent that could have far-reaching consequences. When politicians choose to bypass constitutional requirements, it erodes the trust of the citizens in the democratic process.

It also opens the door for selective adherence to other constitutional provisions in the future, leading to a breakdown of the rule of law.

While the bipartisan approach to resolving the stalemate on the reconstitution of the IEBC is commendable, it is important to ensure that such approaches do not become the norm, especially when they assume powers beyond the constitutional framework.

Extra-constitutional actions risk compromising the integrity of institutions and may pave the way for a culture of political solutions that undermine the constitution.

We must prioritize the reconstitution of the IEBC to ensure the timely and transparent conduct of elections. Political leaders should also demonstrate their commitment to upholding the constitution, even when it is inconvenient for them to do so.

We the citizens, too, play a crucial role in demanding adherence to the rule of law and holding our leaders accountable for their actions.

Copy by Fred Indimuli- host Morning Cafe show

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