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President Ruto Signs Historic IEBC Bill for Electoral Reform

President William Ruto, alongside Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, signed the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) Amendment Bill at Nairobi’s Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC).

This legislation, stemming from National Dialogue Committee (NADCO)  recommendations, marks a significant step for Kenya in electoral reform and national unity.

The IEBC Amendment Bill responds to recent protests calling for electoral changes and the removal of ineffective commissioners. It sets strict criteria for new IEBC members, focusing on expertise in ICT and accounting to enhance operational efficiency.

The amended IEBC Act expands the selection panel to include representatives from political parties, the legal sector, and religious institutions. This aims to ensure a transparent and inclusive process for selecting commissioners who will uphold electoral integrity.

President Ruto emphasized unity in addressing Kenya’s challenges, urging stakeholders to unite against existential threats. He highlighted the reconstituted IEBC’s crucial role in ensuring fair, efficient, and impartial elections.

Opposition leader Raila Odinga welcomed the reforms, linking them to ongoing national dialogue and advocating for comprehensive governance improvements. He stressed the need to fully implement NADCO recommendations to address youth concerns and enhance democratic practices in Kenya.

President Ruto will appoint panel members who will nominate candidates for IEBC leadership roles. This process involves thorough vetting and parliamentary approval, reinforcing Kenya’s commitment to accountable governance and electoral transparency.

The enactment of the IEBC Amendment Bill signifies a significant milestone in Kenya’s democratic journey, demonstrating the nation’s determination to promote unity and strengthen electoral integrity through inclusive political engagement.

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