The National Liberal Party (NLP) has issued a scathing statement condemning what it has termed as a blatant attempt by major political parties to hijack the recruitment of Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) officials.
In a hard-hitting press release, NLP Party Leader Dr. Augustus Kyalo Muli did not mince words as he criticized the involvement of Wiper, ODM, and UDA in behind-the-scenes consultations to influence the appointment of IEBC commissioners. The NLP decried these moves as a “gross violation” of the Constitution and a dangerous step toward turning the electoral body into a puppet of political elites.
Political Choreography or Democratic Process?
NLP’s statement comes amid reports that Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka is demanding to be included in high-level talks with UDA and ODM to determine the composition of the next IEBC. The idea of backroom negotiations to pick electoral officials has sparked outrage among pro-democracy advocates, who see it as a scheme to rig the system before the 2027 elections even begin.
“The IEBC is not a political asset to be shared among a few leaders. It is a crucial institution that must remain independent and beyond political manipulation. What is the purpose of a selection panel if politicians can negotiate and appoint commissioners themselves?” posed Dr. Muli in a fiery address to the media.
The NLP insists that the IEBC must be constituted through a transparent, merit-based, and competitive process. The party warns that if the process is hijacked by political deal-making, Kenya risks another highly contested election marred by mistrust and division.
Kalonzo’s Demand Raises Eyebrows
Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka’s insistence on being part of the negotiations alongside ODM and UDA has been met with skepticism. Critics argue that his push for “consultation” is merely a veiled attempt to secure favorable appointments for his political camp. The NLP, in its statement, called this demand “very disturbing,” warning that it amounts to an unconstitutional power grab that could irreversibly damage Kenya’s democratic gains.
The Ghost of 2022 Elections
Memories of the 2022 elections, where the IEBC found itself entangled in bitter political wrangling, are still fresh in Kenyans’ minds. The NLP pointedly referenced the chaos that erupted when four IEBC commissioners disputed the presidential results, leading to an unprecedented political showdown. The party argues that allowing politicians to handpick commissioners will set the stage for an even bigger electoral disaster in 2027.
A Call for Inclusivity and Rule of Law
Beyond the power struggles, NLP also emphasized the need for inclusivity in the selection process, urging the recruitment panel to consider persons with disabilities and young Kenyans, who form the bulk of the voting population.
“Fair representation and inclusivity are fundamental to the credibility of the IEBC and the trust Kenyans place in it,” the party stated, calling for strict adherence to Article 50(2) of the Constitution to ensure fairness in appointments.
With the 2027 elections fast approaching, the battle for control over the IEBC is only beginning. The NLP has vowed to remain vigilant and push back against any attempt to compromise the commission’s independence.
As political temperatures rise, one thing is clear: Kenya’s electoral integrity hangs in the balance.
