Wafula Chebukati, the former chairperson of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) in Kenya, has passed away at the age of 64. His death, confirmed by his family on Friday, comes after reports of his critical illness and treatment in a Nairobi hospital's Intensive Care Unit. While the official cause of death remains undisclosed, Chebukati's passing has reverberated across Kenya, particularly given the circumstances surrounding his tenure at the IEBC.
Chebukati's time as IEBC chair spanned a full six-year term, concluding in January 2023.
During this period, he oversaw three pivotal Kenyan elections: the 2017 general election, the repeat presidential election later that year, and the 2022 general election. These elections were marked by significant controversy and legal challenges, impacting Kenya's political landscape and raising questions about the integrity of the electoral process.
Beyond his role in the IEBC, Chebukati was a respected lawyer with over three decades of experience. He established his own law firm, Cootow & Associate Advocates, in 2006, specializing in areas such as corporate law, commercial law, and dispute resolution. This legal background undoubtedly influenced his approach to the complex legal and procedural matters involved in election management.
Chebukati's career also included a stint in politics, serving as a member of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party. This political experience provided him with valuable insights into the dynamics of Kenyan politics, which likely played a role in his decisions and actions as IEBC chair.
News of Chebukati's passing has elicited a range of reactions from Kenyans across the political spectrum. Tributes have poured in from various quarters, including elected leaders and former IEBC officials, acknowledging his contributions and service to the nation. He is survived by his wife, Mary Wanyonyi, who was appointed Chairperson of the Commission on Revenue Allocation (CRA) in 2023.
However, Chebukati's legacy is also marked by controversy. His role in presiding over the 2017 general elections, which were marred by widespread allegations of irregularities and led to political turmoil, has generated mixed reactions to his death. While some express respect and condolences, others have openly celebrated his passing, reflecting the deep divisions and unresolved issues surrounding those elections.
The outcome of the 2017 elections, which saw Uhuru Kenyatta and William Samoei Ruto emerge victorious, was widely disputed by the opposition, leading to protests and legal challenges. The annulment of the initial presidential election by the Supreme Court and the subsequent repeat election further deepened the political crisis. This contentious period in Kenyan history raises a complex ethical question: Is it ever justifiable to celebrate someone's death, even if they were perceived as having acted unjustly or contributed to political turmoil?
Wafula Chebukati's life and career present a complex and nuanced picture. He was a lawyer, a politician, and ultimately, the chair of the IEBC during a period of intense political scrutiny and electoral challenges. His legacy is intertwined with the controversies and disputes surrounding the elections he oversaw, leaving behind a mixed and complex public perception. His passing serves as a moment for reflection on the role of individuals in shaping national events and the enduring impact of their decisions, even in the face of intense public pressure and scrutiny.
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