A Life Of Service, Challenges, And Legacy In Kenya’s Electoral History
Wafula Wanyonyi Chebukati
By: James Kilonzo Bwire
Wafula Wanyonyi Chebukati, the former chairman of Kenya’s Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), passed away on February 20, 2025, after a prolonged battle with illness. He was 63 years old. His life was a tapestry woven with significant contributions to Kenya’s electoral processes, marred by controversies that shaped the political landscape of the nation.
Born on December 22, 1961, in Kiminini, Trans Nzoia County, Chebukati hailed from the Luhya community. His educational journey began at St. Peter’s Mumias Boys High School, followed by Bokoli Secondary School. He completed his secondary education at Lenana High School in Nairobi. Pursuing higher education, he earned a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) degree from the University of Nairobi in 1985 and later attended the Kenya School of Law, where he was admitted to the roll of advocates in 1986. To further enhance his qualifications, he obtained a Master’s degree in Business Administration (MBA) from Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT).
Chebukati built a distinguished legal career over three decades, specializing in various fields including international commerce, corporate law, governance, and environmental law. He initially operated a sole proprietorship law firm for 20 years before founding Cootow & Associates Advocates in Nairobi in 2006. He led this firm until January 2017 when he resigned to take up his role at the IEBC.
In addition to his legal career, Chebukati briefly entered politics during the 2007 general elections when he contested for the Saboti parliamentary seat under the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party. Despite his efforts, he lost to Eugene Wamalwa and subsequently distanced himself from active politics.
Chebukati was appointed as IEBC Chairman by President Uhuru Kenyatta in January 2017. His tenure was marked by significant electoral events that would define his legacy. The 2017 General Elections were particularly tumultuous; Chebukati oversaw an election that resulted in Uhuru Kenyatta’s victory over Raila Odinga. However, the Supreme Court annulled these results due to widespread irregularities—an unprecedented ruling that placed intense scrutiny on Chebukati’s leadership.
The repeat election held later that year was also contentious but ultimately led to Kenyatta’s victory again after Odinga boycotted the polls. The internal divisions within the IEBC during this period were palpable, with resignations and protests overshadowing the electoral process.
Chebukati’s leadership faced further challenges during the 2022 General Elections. Despite appearing united initially, a dramatic fallout occurred when four commissioners publicly disowned the presidential results due to alleged discrepancies during verification. Nevertheless, Chebukati declared William Ruto the winner amid accusations of bias and manipulation from various political factions.
Throughout his time at the helm of IEBC, opinions on Chebukati’s legacy were sharply divided. Supporters hailed him as a hero for standing firm against political pressure and threats during turbulent elections, while critics accused him of incompetence and bias. In recognition of his service, President Ruto awarded him the Elder of the Order of the Golden Heart (EGH) in 2023.
Chebukati’s tenure was also marked by tragic events that cast shadows over the electoral process. The deaths of IEBC officials Chris Msando in 2017 and Daniel Musyoka in 2022 raised serious concerns about electoral security and integrity during his leadership.
After retiring from IEBC on January 17, 2023—the first chairperson to complete a full six-year term—Chebukati largely kept a low profile until reports emerged about his critical illness in February 2025. He had previously sought treatment in Germany following the 2022 elections but faced a recurrence of his condition upon returning home.
Chebukati is survived by his wife Mary and their three children. Known for his passion for golf, he served as captain and chairman of several golf clubs throughout his life.
As we mourn Wafula Chebukati’s passing, we extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones during this difficult time. His legacy will be remembered as one intertwined with both service to democracy and the complexities of electoral governance in Kenya.
May he rest in peace.
James Kilonzo Bwire is a Media and Communication Practitioner.
Similar Posts by The Mt Kenya Times:
- FKF opens talks on league kick-off after clubs push back
- Queen Vicky Dynamic: Connecting women, creating impact
- Most Kenyans know their health numbers but few act on them
- Diaspora Times Global Aug 29 – Sep 5, 2026
- When soldiers turn on the junta they helped create
About the Author
