Nairobi, Kenya – August 10, 2025 – The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) is under renewed scrutiny following pointed criticism from Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Secretary General and Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna over what he termed as “manifestly flawed decisions.”
Taking to social media platform X on Sunday morning, Sifuna raised serious concerns regarding the IEBC’s recent actions surrounding a parliamentary by-election and the process of replacing nominated MP John Mbadi, who resigned earlier this year.
In his post, Sifuna accused the electoral commission of ignoring legal provisions in the Constitution, highlighting two key issues:
“Two back-to-back manifestly flawed decisions by the new @IEBCKenya are enough cause for alarm,” Sifuna wrote.
“1. When picking Mbadi’s replacement, the commission ignored the law on selecting the next person from the same category in which Mbadi was nominated. Mbadi was nominated under the ‘workers’ category.
2. Article 101(4)(b) requires IEBC to conduct by-elections within 90 days of issuance of writs. Unless my math is wrong, November 27th is more than 100 days away.”
Sifuna’s statement has stirred debate within political circles, with many interpreting it as a warning shot to the newly constituted electoral body, which has already been facing criticism for alleged partisanship and legal inconsistencies.
Adding fuel to the fire, a prominent political analyst who spoke to media on condition of anonymity said, “When the IEBC chairman said there are no rules to recall Pasaris, he confirmed the speculation that he gets his marching orders from Ruto.”
The comments reference an earlier controversy involving Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris, whose recall was reportedly blocked on vague procedural grounds—something critics argue is becoming a worrying trend of legal loopholes being used to shield political allies.
The IEBC is yet to respond officially to the accusations leveled by Sifuna. However, insiders within the commission suggest that the decisions were made in compliance with internal advisory opinions, though legal experts say these may not hold up under judicial scrutiny.
Why This Matters
The IEBC’s credibility has been under constant examination, especially after the 2022 general elections. The current accusations could further erode public trust in the institution, which is constitutionally mandated to operate independently and impartially.
As 2027 approaches, stakeholders are calling for reforms and greater transparency within the commission to ensure fair electoral processes. Sifuna’s critique—given his stature and experience within Parliament—has amplified the urgency for legal accountability and institutional integrity at the IEBC.
