In a high-stakes press briefing earlier today, Dr. Augustus Kyalo Muli, a recently appointed member of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) Select Panel, publicly addressed his sudden and contentious removal from the panel. Dr. Muli, renowned for his unwavering commitment to electoral integrity, criticized the decision as an “illegal and blatant attempt to undermine the IEBC’s selection process.”
Dr. Muli asserted that his removal, executed without prior notice or legitimate explanation, was driven by specific political interests seeking to manipulate the selection process of IEBC commissioners for their benefit. He underscored the crucial role of maintaining an independent and unbiased IEBC, particularly in light of the upcoming general elections.
“Today, I speak not merely as a victim of an unjust decision, but as a staunch defender of the democratic values our nation cherishes,” Dr. Muli declared. “This removal is not only unlawful but also a direct threat to the transparency and fairness that the IEBC represents.”
Dr. Muli emphasized that such actions jeopardize public confidence in electoral processes and could set a perilous precedent for future elections. He stressed that the IEBC must remain impartial and focused on reflecting the people’s will.
The sentiments were reiterated by former Migori senatorial aspirant Ms Sophy Dhibira who called for an immediate review and reversal of his removal, calling on judicial bodies, civil society organizations, and the international community to intervene.
She emphasized the need for collective action to safeguard the integrity of Kenya’s electoral systems.
“I urge all stakeholders to support the defense of our electoral processes. We must ensure that the IEBC remains a trusted institution that genuinely represents the will of the Kenyan people,” she noted.
The nation now faces a critical moment as the implications of Dr. Muli’s removal are debated. This development could have far-reaching effects on the credibility of the forthcoming elections and the broader trust in Kenya’s democratic institutions.