Former Eldoret Municipality Chair dismisses opposition concerns over IEBC credibility
He suggested that some of the criticism may be driven by political anxiety rather than genuine electoral concerns.
By Kipngeno Mutai
Former Eldoret Municipality Chair Julius Kitur has dismissed concerns raised by a section of opposition leaders over the credibility of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), saying the electoral body’s officials were lawfully recruited and vetted and should be allowed to execute their mandate without political intimidation.
Kitur said the commissioners assumed office after undergoing a competitive selection process and a rigorous approval exercise in Parliament, where elected representatives scrutinized their qualifications, experience, and suitability to manage national elections.
According to Kitur, the process demonstrated that those entrusted with leading the commission under chairperson Erastus Ethokon have the institutional backing required to oversee a credible electoral process.
“The officers at the commission went through a very competitive recruitment and parliamentary vetting process, so it is wrong for some leaders to begin questioning their capability now,” Kitur said.
Opposition leaders led by former deputy president Rigathi Gachagua had called for keeping the IEBC on its toes to ensure a free, fair, credible and verifiable 2027 General Election by smoothing the processes and providing a level playing field.
Kitur argued that attacks against the commission’s integrity risk undermining public confidence in democratic institutions and may create unnecessary political tension ahead of the next general election. He suggested that some of the criticism may be driven by political anxiety rather than genuine electoral concerns.
“Some of those casting doubt on the commission are simply preparing excuses because they have already sensed possible defeat in the coming elections,” he claimed.
At the same time, the former municipal chair called on the IEBC to remain firm and proactive in enforcing electoral laws. He stressed that clear operational rules must be communicated early and applied equally to all aspirants to prevent disorder and malpractice during the campaign period.
“The commission must set firm election standards and any aspirant who fuels violence, breaks campaign rules, or engages in malpractice should be disqualified and held accountable,” he urged.
He also expressed concern about the rising wave of premature political campaigns across the country, warning that uncontrolled early mobilization risks deepening divisions among supporters and heightening national political temperatures long before the official campaign window.
He further appealed to the national government to ensure the commission receives adequate financial support to prepare effectively, including investment in modern election technology, staff training, and logistics.
“Government should allocate sufficient resources to enable proper preparations and modern equipment so the country can have fair, credible and verifiable elections,” he added.
Kitur expressed confidence that, if properly supported and allowed to operate independently, the electoral body can successfully deliver peaceful and transparent polls.
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