ELOG Kenya Statement On The Additional Names On IEBC Shortlist

The Elections Observation Group (ELOG) has today released a statement on the ongoing recruitment process for the members and Chairperson of the IEBC being undertaken by the IEBC Selection Panel. Taking an electoral cycle approach, ELOG has been monitoring and tracking the on-going IEBC recruitment interviews being undertaken by the Panel (appointed through Gazette Notice No. 715; 27th January, 2025), which started on 24th March 2025, and wishes to make the following observations:

a. ELOG commends the panel for providing consistent updates on the recruitment process, including the processing of 11 candidates shortlisted for the position of Chairperson, whose interviews took place from 24th to 26th March 2025.

b. ELOG has noted that the initial list published on 14th March 2025 had a total of 105 shortlisted names for the position of commissioners and a subsequent re-publication on 25th March 2025 reflected an increased number to 111 candidates with six additional names: Hassan Noor Hassan; Jibril Maalim Mohamed; Michaels Ben Oliewo; Charles Kipyegon Mutai; Stephen Kibet Ngano and Joel Mwita Daniels. While noting that the panel did communicate on the increase and the general reasons behind it, concerns remain on the procedure used to select the additional names and raises questions as to why this criterion was not employed from the beginning as directed by the relevant laws and regulations.

While ELOG underscores the need for timely on-boarding of the commissioners and the chair, the importance of transparency in the recruitment process cannot be underestimated. In this regard, therefore, ELOG wishes to make the following recommendations:

1. The Panel should publicly explain the process used to identify and bring in the six applicants to uphold transparency and public trust in the process.

2. Noting that the Commission duties are time-barred, the country cannot afford further delays in bringing on board commissioners and therefore urge the Panel to expedite the process.