A strong statement has been released by the People’s United Opposition, accusing President William Ruto of manipulating the appointment of a new Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to influence the outcome of the 2027 General Election.
The opposition coalition, which includes top political leaders like Kalonzo Musyoka, Martha Karua, and Rigathi Gachagua, described the newly formed IEBC as a biased institution designed to benefit Ruto’s re-election bid. They also criticized Hon. Raila Odinga for allegedly supporting the process through silence, describing the move as a “broad-based brotherhood” aimed at capturing the state.
According to the statement, the IEBC selection process was politically driven from the beginning. The panel responsible for choosing commissioners was described as an extension of State House, allegedly filled with President Ruto’s allies and advisers. The opposition claims that constitutional requirements such as public participation, neutrality, and consultation were ignored.
Key Concerns Raised:
• Hassan Noor, a relative of MP Junet Mohammed, was not on the original list of candidates but was added later after the panel’s deadline was extended.
• Joy Midivo and Charles Nyachae, both reportedly linked to President Ruto’s political camp, were shortlisted despite potential conflicts of interest.
• Dr. Adams Oloo, a member of the selection panel, also serves as the president’s strategic communication advisor.
• Erastus Edung, nominated as the commission’s chair, is seen as a close ally of State House, with a record criticized for poor performance in Turkana County.
The opposition insists that Article 88(2) of the Constitution requires the IEBC to be independent and free from political control. Instead, they argue that the new appointments create a commission that is biased and lacks credibility.
In response, the opposition says it will not remain passive. It has announced plans to create a People’s IEBC an independent, citizen-led body that will act as a watchdog and hold the official commission accountable to constitutional values such as transparency and integrity.
The coalition is also demanding the immediate release of the IEBC Selection Panel’s full exit report and Hansard records detailing how the six nominees were chosen.
“The people of Kenya must remain alert. This is not just about 2027 it is about protecting the very soul of our democracy,” the statement reads. The group vows to mobilize the public to reject what it calls a rigged system and restore trust in democratic institutions.
Members of the United Opposition include:
• H.E. Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka (Wiper Party)
• Hon. Martha Karua (People’s Liberation Party)
• H.E. Rigathi Gachagua (2nd Deputy President)
• Hon. Eugene Wamalwa (DAP-Kenya)
• Hon. Justin Muturi (Democratic Party)
• Mr. Torome Saitoti (Jubilee Party)
- • Hon. Fred Matiang’i (UPA)
• Hon. Mukhisa Kituyi (Former UNCTAD Secretary-General)
The leaders have pledged to fight for electoral justice and safeguard the Constitution as the nation prepares for the 2027 elections.
