Former Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) Chairperson Wafula Chebukati has passed away while receiving treatment.
Chebukati’s death comes just days after he was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) following a period of home treatment.
The news was confirmed by a family member, though the exact cause of his illness remains undisclosed.
Tenure at IEBC: Leading Two Presidential Elections
Chebukati served as IEBC Chairperson for six years, from 2017 to 2023. During his tenure, he oversaw two general elections—the 2017 and 2022 polls.
His leadership at the commission was marked by controversy, legal battles, and political pressure, especially during the highly contested presidential elections.
After retiring in 2023, Chebukati remained a prominent public figure, often sharing insights on electoral integrity and governance.
Political ambitions and IEBC Appointment
Chebukati first ventured into politics in 2007 when he vied for the Saboti parliamentary seat on an Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) ticket.
However, he lost to Eugene Wamalwa, who ran on a Party of National Unity (PNU) ticket.
Following his loss, Chebukati resigned from ODM and shifted his focus back to law and governance.
In 2016, he applied for the position of IEBC chairperson and was appointed by former President Uhuru Kenyatta.
Love life
In 1990, Chebukati married Mary Chebukati, and together they had three children: Jonathan, Emmanuel, and Rachael.
As of 2022, his net worth was estimated at Ksh120 million, with a monthly salary of Ksh900,000 while serving as IEBC chairperson.
