Former Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) Chairman Wafula Chebukati has passed away at the age of 63. Chebukati, who led Kenya’s electoral body from January 2017 until his retirement in January 2023, died on February 21, 2025, in Nairobi.
Born on December 22, 1961, in Nanyuki County, Kenya, Chebukati pursued a Bachelor of Law degree from the University of Nairobi and a Post Graduate Diploma from the Kenya School of Law. Before his tenure at the IEBC, he founded the Nairobi-based law firm Cootow & Associates Advocates in 2006. In 2007, he ventured into politics, contesting the Saboti Constituency parliamentary seat, where he finished in second place.
During his time as IEBC Chairman, Chebukati oversaw multiple elections, including the 2017 and 2022 general elections. His leadership was marked by both praise and criticism, particularly during the contentious 2017 elections, which were annulled by the Supreme Court, leading to a repeat election. Despite challenges, he completed his six-year term, becoming the first IEBC Chairperson to do so.
In December 2023, Chebukati celebrated his 62nd birthday, expressing gratitude for the milestones achieved and the experiences garnered over the years. He maintained a low profile post-retirement, occasionally sharing personal moments with family and friends.
On February 17, 2025, reports emerged that Chebukati had been admitted to a Nairobi hospital’s Intensive Care Unit. Details regarding his illness remained private, with his family requesting privacy during the challenging period. His passing marks the end of a significant chapter in Kenya’s electoral history.
Chebukati is survived by his wife, Mary Wanyonyi Chebukati, who serves as the chairperson of the Commission on Revenue Allocation (CRA), and their children. The family is yet to release details regarding funeral arrangements.
As the nation mourns, tributes have begun pouring in from various quarters, acknowledging Chebukati’s contributions to Kenya’s democratic processes and his commitment to upholding the integrity of the electoral system.
