Gachagua challenges IEBC chair Ethekon to defend commission’s independence

Rigathi Gachagua, the former Deputy President and leader of the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP), has urged Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) Chairman Erastus Ethekon to defend the commission's independence and credibility as the 2027 General Election approaches. Speaking on August 26, 2026, Gachagua pointed out public doubts about the electoral commission potentially being swayed by President William Ruto's administration.

He informed Ethekon that he had previously approached him regarding concerns over the commission's image and erosion of public trust.

Gachagua reminded Ethekon of the challenges faced by the former Electoral Commission of Kenya (ECK) during the 2007 General Election, which led to widespread violence across the country. He emphasized that Kenyan voters cannot endure a recurrence of such mistrust and tensions surrounding disputed elections. Ethekon acknowledged the controversy surrounding his appointment and the political allegiance he may have to certain factions.

The DCP leader challenged Ethekon to prioritize the interests of Kenyan voters over political considerations. Gachagua asserted that Ethekon has the option to either support the 55 million Kenyan voters or risk causing division and turmoil within the nation. As political figures become more concerned about the commission's independence and credibility ahead of the 2027 election, Gachagua emphasized that Ethekon's decisions would play a crucial role in maintaining Kenyans' confidence in the electoral process.