Former Chairperson of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), Wafula Chebukati, has passed away at the age of 63. Chebukati died on the night of Thursday, February 20, 2025, while receiving treatment at a Nairobi hospital, where he had been admitted to the Intensive Care Unit for nearly a week.
Chebukati was appointed as the IEBC Chairperson in January 2017 by former President Uhuru Kenyatta. During his tenure, he oversaw the 2017 and 2022 General Elections, including the historic October 2017 repeat presidential election. He retired from office in January 2023 after serving for six years.
Born on December 22, 1961, Chebukati held a Bachelor of Law degree from the University of Nairobi and a Master of Business Administration from Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT). Before joining the electoral commission, he practiced law for over two decades and founded the law firm Cootow & Associates Advocates in 2006.
President William Ruto led the country in mourning Chebukati, describing him as a “principled and diligent leader who served the nation with integrity.” Various political leaders and institutions have also expressed their condolences, highlighting his role in shaping Kenya’s electoral process.
Chebukati is survived by his wife, Mary Chebukati Wanyonyi, and their three children. Funeral arrangements are yet to be announced.
May his soul rest in peace.