Is Chebukati Above the Law?

In a world where laws are made to be followed, one man stands above the fray – Wafula Chebukati, the chairman of Kenya's Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC). Like an untouchable Colossus, he wields his power with impunity, leaving many to wonder – is he really above the law?

Chebukati's tenure has been marked by a series of controversies that have cast a shadow over the integrity of Kenya's electoral process. In 2017, he oversaw an election marred by allegations of fraud and irregularities. The Supreme Court annulled the results, citing "illegalities and irregularities." Yet, Chebukati emerged unscathed, his reputation tarnished but his position unyielding.

The 2017 election controversy was not an isolated incident. In 2022, Chebukati once again faced accusations of bias and incompetence. This time, the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) was accused of bungling the voter registration process, disenfranchising thousands of citizens. Calls for Chebukati's resignation grew louder, but he remained defiant, clinging to his position with ironclad determination.

What gives Chebukati this extraordinary immunity? Some argue that he is protected by the law. As the chairman of the IEBC, he enjoys immunity from prosecution for any actions taken in the line of duty. This immunity has been interpreted broadly, shielding him from accountability even for serious allegations of wrongdoing.

The immunity granted to Chebukati has left many Kenyans feeling betrayed. They feel that a man who has repeatedly failed to uphold the integrity of the electoral process should not be above the law. The lack of accountability has eroded trust in the electoral system and has raised concerns about the future of democracy in Kenya.

The time has come for Chebukati to be held accountable for his actions. The immunity he enjoys should not be a shield for incompetence or wrongdoing. Kenyans deserve an electoral process that is fair, transparent, and free from manipulation. Only by restoring accountability can we restore trust in our democracy.

The fate of Kenya's democracy rests on the shoulders of its people. They must demand accountability from their leaders, no matter how powerful they may seem. The law must be upheld, and justice must prevail. Only then can Kenya truly be a nation where all citizens are equal before the law.