The family of the late Wafula Chebukati, former Chairperson of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), has yet to decide whether a postmortem examination will be conducted.
Speaking to the press on Friday, family spokesperson Eric Nyongesa stated that a decision would be made following consultations among family members.
“At this moment, we have not made a decision on whether to conduct a postmortem. Let us not speculate. Once the family has had time to consult with doctors, we will issue an official statement,” Nyongesa said.
He further urged the public to respect the family’s privacy during this difficult time and to refrain from spreading unverified information on social media.
Chebukati’s immediate family members, including his father, widow Mary Wanyonyi, and sons Jonathan and Emmanuel, gathered at Lee Funeral Home following his passing.
The 64-year-old former electoral commission boss passed away on Thursday night at a Nairobi hospital, where he had been receiving treatment for nearly a week.
Tributes have continued to pour in from across the country, with President William Ruto and his predecessor Unhuru Kenyatta leading the nation in mourning.
“I have received the news of the passing of former IEBC Chairperson Wafula Chebukati with profound sorrow. Chebukati was a principled and diligent leader who served the nation with integrity. His death is a great loss to our country. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends during this difficult time. Rest in peace,” President Ruto said.
Chebukati served as the Chairperson of the IEBC for a full six-year term before retiring in January 2023. His tenure was marked by significant electoral processes that shaped Kenya’s democratic landscape.
The family is expected to provide further details regarding funeral arrangements in due course