Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) Chairperson Erastus Ethekon has pledged his unwavering loyalty to Kenyans as the newly appointed team starts its mandate.
Speaking on Friday following his swearing-in at the Supreme Court Buildings, Ethekon emphasised that his primary commitment is to the citizens who hold the sovereign power under Article One of the Constitution.
“My first and foremost loyalty is to the people of Kenya who hold the sovereign power under Article One of our Constitution and it allows them therefore to exercise their sovereign responsibility including their right to vote,” Ethekon said.
“I wish to assure Kenyans that their voices will not only be heard but will also count during the coming elections.”
Ethekon referenced the late American civil rights leader John Lewis, noting the sacredness of voting rights.
In his speech in 2012, John Lewis said “My dear friends, your vote is precious, almost sacred. It is the most powerful nonviolent tool we have to create a more perfect union”.
Consequently, the new IEBC chairperson urged Kenyans to use this right to build a peaceful and stable democracy.
Ethekon outlined the commission’s constitutional mandate under Article 88, committing to conducting free, fair and credible elections.
“The credibility of our elections depends on our collective commitment to the rule of law, fairness and the principle that every Kenyan matters,” he said.
Ethekon also acknowledged the challenging journey his team had undergone to get to the appointment point, pledging to serve Kenyans with integrity and urgency.
“Today marks the beginning of our service to the people of Kenya. We must approach this sacred duty with urgency, integrity, and absolute commitment,” he stated.
He thanked the President William Ruto, the Parliament, the Justice and Legal Affairs Committee and the Judiciary for their roles in the rigorous appointment process.
“I would like to thank the Judiciary for the commendable job they did in expediting the process and affirming the legality of our appointment,” Ethekon added.
As the election period approaches, the IEBC faces pressure to restore public confidence following previous controversies.
In reassuring Kenyans that their votes will be respected and the electoral process will be transparent, Ethekon quoted Winston Churchill:
“The price of greatness is responsibility”, he added, and “That responsibility now rests with us and all Kenyans.”
Ethekon will work alongside commissioners are Ann Njeri Nderitu, Moses Alutalala Mukhwana, Mary Karen Sorobit, Hassan Noor Hassan, Francis Odhiambo Aduol and Fahima Araphat Abdallah.
