Wafula Chebukati Death & Obituary: Wafula Wanyonyi Chebukati, the former chairman of Kenya’s Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), has passed away at the age of 64. Chebukati, who had been battling a long illness, was declared clinically dead at a local hospital, leaving his family with the heartbreaking decision of discontinuing life support. His death marks the end of a remarkable career dedicated to upholding Kenya’s democratic processes with resilience and integrity.
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Wafula Chebukati’s Early Life and Legal Career
Born in 1961 in Bungoma County, Chebukati pursued law at the University of Nairobi before earning a Master of Business Administration from Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT). His legal career spanned over three decades, during which he made significant contributions to Kenya’s legal landscape.
In 1986, he founded Wanyonyi & Company Advocates, and later, in 2006, co-founded Cootow & Associates Advocates. His extensive legal experience prepared him for the challenging role he would take on as the chairman of the IEBC, a position that would define his legacy in Kenya’s electoral history.
Chebukati’s Tenure as IEBC Chairman
In 2017, Chebukati was appointed as the IEBC chairman by then-President Uhuru Kenyatta. During his tenure, he oversaw two of the most contentious elections in Kenya’s history—the 2017 and 2022 presidential polls.
- 2017 General Election: The Supreme Court annulled the presidential election results, making history as the first time an African court nullified a presidential election. Chebukati oversaw the repeat poll, ensuring Kenya’s democracy remained intact despite political turmoil.
- 2022 General Election: Amid internal divisions within the IEBC, Chebukati declared William Ruto as the President-elect, a decision that sparked public debate and dissent among four IEBC commissioners. Despite immense pressure, he stood firm, earning both criticism and admiration for his principled stance.
Chebukati’s Achievements and Recognition
Despite facing challenges and controversies, Chebukati became the first IEBC chairman to complete a full six-year term, retiring in January 2023. In recognition of his contributions, he was honored with the Elder of the Order of the Golden Heart (EGH), Kenya’s second-highest civilian award. His leadership played a crucial role in strengthening Kenya’s electoral integrity and shaping its political landscape.
President William Ruto expressed his condolences, describing Chebukati as a “principled and diligent leader who served the nation with integrity.” His passing is a great loss to the country, and his legacy will be remembered by both supporters and critics alike.
A Life Beyond Public Service
Beyond his contributions to Kenya’s electoral system, Chebukati had a passion for golf. He served in leadership roles at the Mombasa and Nyali Golf Clubs and was a committee member of the Kenya Golf Union. His love for the sport demonstrated his ability to balance the demands of public office with personal interests.
Wafula Chebukati’s Legacy and Impact
Chebukati’s passing leaves a void in Kenya’s electoral and legal spheres, but his legacy will endure. He will be remembered as a defender of democracy, a legal expert, and a leader who upheld fairness and transparency. His role in shaping Kenya’s democratic journey remains significant, and his decisions will continue to influence the nation’s electoral discourse.
Conclusion
As Kenya mourns the loss of Wafula Chebukati, his life stands as a testament to the importance of integrity, resilience, and service to the nation. His leadership at the IEBC came at a defining moment in Kenya’s democracy, and his contributions will not be forgotten.
His family, colleagues, and the entire nation reflect on the indelible mark he left on Kenya’s history. Wafula Wanyonyi Chebukati was not just a public servant; he was a symbol of the ongoing struggle for a free, fair, and just electoral system. His passing is a profound loss, but his legacy will continue to inspire future generations.