Kenya lost a dedicated public servant with the passing of Wafula Wanyonyi Chebukati, the erstwhile IEBC Chairman. Chebukati, who steered the electoral agency through some of the most pivotal moments in the history of Kenya’s democracy passed away on February 20, 2025, at a hospital in Nairobi where he was being treated. He was 64 years old.
Wafula Chebukati was born on December 22, 1961. He was a trained lawyer, with a Bachelor of Laws degree from the University of Nairobi. He also had a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree from Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT). Having been a practicing lawyer for over three decades, he formed the law firm Cootow & Associates Advocates in 2006, which he led until he was appointed to serve as the Chairperson of the IEBC in January 2017.
During his tenure as the IEBC Chairman, Chebukati oversaw three high-stakes elections, the 2017 General Election, the October 2017 repeat presidential election and the 2022 General Election. His period was marked by unprecedent challenges, including political pressure, court cases and claims from different sides of the political divide. Despite these challenges, he remained steadfast in ensuring the integrity of the electoral process.
Chebukati’s most defining moment came in 2022 when he oversaw one of Kenya’s most contested elections. He was also a passionate golfer, frequently participating in the Nyali and Mombasa Golf Clubs. His love for golf was well known and he utilized golf as a means of relief from his hectic responsibilities.
Chebukati’s passing comes after a period of illness, during which he was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit for nearly a week before his demise. While the exact cause of his illness has not been publicly disclosed his loss is deeply felt by many who admired his resilience and dedication to public service.
While Kenya laments his demise we celebrate the legacy that he leaves a legacy of integrity, courage and unshakeable dedication to the democratic process. His struggles will be noted in the history books of Kenya’s elections, and his efforts will keep on shaping the governance of the country for generations to come.
Wafula Chebukati may rest in peace, and his family find solace in the change that he made in Kenya’s democracy.
Rest in Peace, Wafula Chebukati: A Legacy of Electoral Integrity
