Wafula Chebukati, a seasoned legal expert and former chairman of Kenya’s Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), is a figure who shaped the nation’s electoral history.
Born on December 22, 1961, in Kiminini, Trans Nzoia County, he dedicated his life to law, governance, and electoral reforms.
Early Life and Education
Chebukati’s academic journey began at St. Peter’s Mumias Boys High School before he moved to Bokoli Secondary School.
He later joined Lenana High School in Nairobi, where he completed his secondary education.
His passion for law led him to the University of Nairobi, where he earned a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) degree in 1985.
He furthered his legal training at the Kenya School of Law and was admitted to the bar in 1986.
To enhance his expertise, he pursued a Master’s degree in Business Administration (MBA) at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT).
Distinguished legal career
Chebukati built an impressive legal career spanning over three decades, specializing in corporate law, governance, dispute resolution, and environmental law.
For two decades, he ran a private law firm before founding Cootow & Associates Advocates in Nairobi in 2006.
He managed the firm until 2017 when he stepped down to take up his role at the IEBC.
A Short Stint in Politics
In 2007, Chebukati ventured into politics, contesting the Saboti parliamentary seat under the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM).
However, he lost to Eugene Wamalwa of the Party of National Unity (PNU). Following this defeat, he distanced himself from active politics, resigning from ODM and focusing on his legal career.
Leadership at the IEBC
Appointed as IEBC Chairman in January 2017 by President Uhuru Kenyatta, Chebukati took office during a politically charged period. His tenure was marked by two historic elections:
- 2017 Elections: Chebukati oversaw the controversial election annulled by the Supreme Court due to irregularities, leading to a repeat poll that was boycotted by opposition leader Raila Odinga.
- 2022 Elections: He declared William Ruto as Kenya’s president, a decision contested by four commissioners (the “Cherera Four”) but upheld by the Supreme Court.
While Ruto’s supporters hailed him as a defender of democracy, critics accused him of bias.
Life Beyond IEBC
Chebukati was honoured in 2023 with the Elder of the Order of the Golden Heart (EGH) award by President Ruto.
However, he continued to face scrutiny over allegations of bias and corruption.
A passionate golfer, he served as chairman of Nyali and Mombasa Golf Clubs.
He was married to Mary Chebukati, who was appointed Chairperson of the Commission on Revenue Allocation in 2023.
In early 2025, reports emerged of his critical illness, though official confirmation remained elusive.
His legacy, however, remains deeply woven into Kenya’s democratic journey.
