Kalonzo wants opposition consulted before IEBC team is picked

Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka has demanded that ODM and UDA consult the opposition before nomination for appointment of Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) chairperson and commissioners.

Kalonzo noted that the National Dialogue Committee (NADCO) process, which he co-chaired on behalf of the opposition ranks, committed to establishing a credible IEBC through a recruitment process that is open, transparent and accountable.

He said a key element in the process is the principle of consultation and concurrence between representatives of the coalition in Government and those in the Opposition, before the nomination for appointment of IEBC chair and commissioners.

“Given the changed political landscape, where the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) have formed a government and entered into informal relations, including through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed in public at Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) on March 7, 2025, it is important to clarify who will participate in this critical process of consultation and concurrence,” the Wiper leader said.

In a letter to former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, Kalonzo said he firmly believes that UDA and ODM are now aligned on one side, and should engage in discussions with them in the Opposition to ensure a balanced and inclusive process.

“This position is informed by the principles of checks and balances, good governance, and sound public policy,” he stated.

He maintained that any deviation from the approach would amount to a unilateral political act that serves the partisan interests of UDA and ODM, thereby undermining public trust and confidence in the establishment of the IEBC.

He said such an approach would also revive the dangerous precedent that contributed to the disputed elections and the Post-Election Violence of 2007/08.

“For avoidance of doubt, should the UDA/ODM Alliance proceed with the appointment of the IEBC chairperson and commissioners without the meaningful participation of the Opposition, such an action will be deemed as an attempt to establish a partisan electoral body,” Kalonzo stated.

The Wiper leader said the Opposition remains committed to vigorously opposing any attempt to interfere with or undermine the sovereign will of the Kenyan people.

“I therefore, demand that the UDA/ODM Alliance engage in meaningful consultation and concurrence with the Opposition to enhance public confidence in the IEBC. This approach aligns with the values and principles enshrined in the Constitution of Kenya. 2010, and the broader ideals of electoral justice. It is also in line with the best practices established by the Inter-Parliamentary Political Group (IPPG) in 1997, which contributed to the credibility of the 2002 elections.”