Days after the official gazettement of the new Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) team, a group of youth leaders has called on the electoral body to uphold impartiality, transparency, and fairness as the country heads toward the 2027 General Election. The youths expressed concern over growing public skepticism surrounding the commission’s credibility, especially following accusations from a section of political leaders that the appointments were politically skewed.
President William Ruto recently appointed Erastus Edung Ethekon as the IEBC Chairperson, alongside six commissioners, following a High Court ruling that nullified earlier appointments made on June 10. However, the opposition has rejected the new team, citing a lack of consultation and violation of constitutional provisions requiring inclusivity in the selection process.
Following this, the youths under the Munyiri Africa Foundation urged the newly constituted commission to prioritize neutrality and ensure the electoral process reflects the will of the people. Speaking during a press briefing in Ruiru, the foundation’s patron, Bishop David Munyiri Thagana, echoed the youth’s sentiments, emphasizing the need for objectivity and professionalism in the commission’s operations.
The call comes amid a tense political climate, with mounting public demand for reforms, accountability, and inclusion in governance processes. The group also condemned the recent wave of violent demonstrations, including those witnessed during the Gen Z-led and Saba Saba protests. They decried the destruction of property and loss of lives, warning that continued unrest threatens the country’s socio-economic stability.
In their statement, the youths proposed the formation of a national, non-partisan, multi-sectoral dialogue forum that is free from political interference to address pressing national issues, foster unity, and chart a peaceful path forward.
 team, a group of youth leaders has called on the electoral body to uphold impartiality, transparency, and fairness as the country heads toward the 2027 General Election.){kind=link}