Former Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) Chairman Wafula Wanyonyi Chebukati has passed away at the age of 63. He died on Thursday, February 20, 2025, at 11 p.m. while undergoing treatment at a Nairobi hospital, where he had been admitted for nearly a week.
Chebukati served as the IEBC Chairperson from January 2017 to January 2023, overseeing the 2017 and 2022 general elections. Notably, he became the first IEBC Chair to complete a full six-year term.
President William Ruto expressed his condolences, describing Chebukati as “a principled and diligent leader who served the nation with integrity.” The President added, “His death is a great loss to our country. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends during this difficult time.” citeturn0search3
Chebukati’s tenure at the IEBC was marked by significant events, including the annulled 2017 presidential election and the highly divisive 2022 polls that split the electoral commission. Despite facing numerous challenges, he remained steadfast in his role, contributing to the strengthening of Kenya’s democratic processes.
Born on December 19, 1961, Chebukati held a Bachelor of Law degree from the University of Nairobi and a Master of Business Administration from the Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology. Before joining the IEBC, he practiced law for 37 years and was a member of the Orange Democratic Movement, from which he resigned before applying for the position of IEBC Chairperson.
He is survived by his wife, Mary Chebukati, and their children. The family has requested privacy during this difficult time.
