Kenya mourns the loss of Wafula Chebukati, the former chairman of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), who passed away at 63 after a courageous battle with illness.
A man who stood at the crossroads of Kenya’s democracy, Chebukati’s tenure from January 2017 to January 2023 was marked by intense political pressure, legal battles, and historic elections that reshaped the nation’s political landscape.
He leaves behind a legacy as one of the most pivotal figures in Kenya’s electoral history.
Born on December 22, 1961, in Bungoma County, Chebukati’s journey from a corporate lawyer to Kenya’s top election official was nothing short of remarkable.
Guiding the country through two highly contested elections in 2017 and 2022, his leadership faced unprecedented challenges yet shaped the future of Kenyan democracy.
Despite political storms and personal sacrifices, Chebukati stood firm, steering the IEBC through turbulent times.
He retired in January 2023 after years of dedicated service, leaving behind a legacy of resilience and courage taking home Sh12 million in retirement perks.
His passing leaves a void in Kenya’s political arena and an ache in the hearts of his loved ones. Chebukati is survived by his wife, Mary, and their 3 children, who now carry forward his legacy.
Things You Didn’t Know About Wafula Chebukati
Passed away at 11 pm on Thursday, February 20, 2025, after battling critical illness. Admitted in ICU from 2024 where he was declared ‘clinically dead’ until his death at age 63. Served as IEBC Chairman for six impactful years, retiring on January 17, 2023. Hid body lies at Lee Funeral Home awaiting burial.
Presided over three historic polls:
- 2017 Kenyan General Election
- October 2017 Repeat Presidential Election
- 2022 Kenyan General Election
- Ruto won with 7,176,141 votes (50.49 percent) against Raila Odinga’s 6,942,930 votes (48.85 percent), all while facing immense political pressure and threats.
- At the Bomas of Kenya, Chebukati found himself caught in a storm of tension, facing assassination plots, the abduction of his colleagues, and numerous attempts to manipulate the election results.
Guided Kenya’s democracy through political storms and legal challenges.Academic Achievements:
- Bachelor of Law from the University of Nairobi
- Master of Business Administration from JKUAT
Family and Personal Life:
- Married to Mary Chebukati Wanyonyi
- Father to Emmanuel, Rachel, and Jonathan Chebukati
- First-born son of John Wafula Chebukati and Mama Joina Wafula
Education and Early Life:
- Attended St. Peters Mumias Boys in Kakamega
- Alumnus of Lenana School
Leadership Beyond IEBC:
- Chairman of Nyali and Mombasa Golf Clubs
- Member of the Kenya Golfing Society
Political Journey:
- Resigned from ODM before applying for IEBC Chairman position
A Legacy Remembered:
- Pivotal figure in Kenya’s electoral history
- Guided the nation with resilience, integrity, and courage
- His impact on Kenya’s democracy will never be forgotten
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