Ruto: Chebukati's death a great loss to Kenya

President William Ruto, receives an exit report from the outgoing IEBC Chairman Wafula Chebukati. [File, Standard]

President William Ruto has led the country in mourning the death of former Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) Chairperson Wafula Chebukati.

Chebukati’s family confirmed that the ex-IEBC boss died while undergoing treatment at his Karen home in Nairobi.

Ruto eulogised Chebukati as a ‘principled and diligent leader’, terming his death as a great loss to the country.

“I have received the news of the passing of former Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission Chairperson Wafula Chebukati with profound sorrow. Chebukati was a principled and diligent leader who served the nation with integrity. His death is a great loss to our country. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends during this difficult time. Rest in Peace,” the President wrote on X.

National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula eulogised Chebukati as an eminent jurist, a steadfast defender of the rule of law, and a key contributor to Kenya’s democratic journey.

He said his death is a great loss not only to his family but also to the legal fraternity, the electoral governance space, and the nation as a whole.

“During his tenure as Chairman of IEBC, he carried out his responsibilities with remarkable courage, fidelity to the Constitution, and an unwavering commitment to justice. Even in the face of immense challenges, he remained resolute, guided by his oath of office and the principles of fairness and transparency,” said Wetang’ula.

His Senate counterpart Amason Kingi also joined the country in mourning the death of the ex-IEBC Boss.

In his condolence message, he said: “Chebukati oversaw fair and transparent elections that have continued to promote the rule of law and governance in Kenya. May his soul rest in peace.”

National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichungwah remembered Chebukati was a guardian of free and fair elections.

“His unwavering dedication to upholding the integrity of Kenya’s democracy, particularly during pivotal electoral moments, remains a testament to his steadfast leadership and commitment to justice,”

Other leaders who have condoled Chebukati include Environment CS Aden Duale, who said Chebukati was an individual committed to the democratic process.

“His journey was marked by courage, firmness, fidelity to the law steadfastness and a commitment to the democratic process. Today, we grieve the loss of a leader who stood firm in the face of history. May his loved ones find strength in this difficult hour, and may his soul find rest in peace.”

His Interior counterpart Kipchumba Murkomen eulogized the former IEBC Chair as a principled leader with courage and fidelity to the Constitution.

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