Speaker of the National Assembly Moses Wetang’ula led Members of Parliament in mourning the late Wafula Chebukati, former Chairman of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC). The delegation visited Chebukati’s Nairobi home to express their condolences to his family.
During the visit, Speaker Wetang’ula praised Chebukati’s leadership, emphasizing his unwavering commitment to the Constitution, the rule of law, and democratic principles. He noted that Chebukati’s tenure at the IEBC was marked by tough decisions and an unyielding dedication to upholding Kenya’s electoral processes. “The office that Wafula Chebukati held made him realize that the discharge of his duties was not just physical; it was legal, intellectual, and constitutional. And he carried out his role with integrity until the very end,” Wetang’ula remarked.
Beyond honoring Chebukati’s service, Speaker Wetang’ula reflected on recent tragic events in Mumias, where lives were lost in violent incidents. He called for reconciliation and urged Kenyans to prioritize unity, stating, “What happened in Mumias was tragic. We have witnessed the bloodshed of our brothers and sons. Let us move away from this and work towards peace and unity.”
His message underscored the importance of fostering national cohesion and ensuring that political differences do not escalate into violence. Speaker Wetang’ula also called on leaders to uphold dignity during funerals, discouraging the use of such solemn gatherings as political platforms. He highlighted that during recent funerals, political discussions were not entertained, emphasizing the need to respect the grief of families and allow them to mourn in peace.
Wafula Chebukati’s contributions to Kenya’s democratic process will be remembered for generations. His leadership, integrity, and firm stand on constitutional principles set a standard for public service. As the country prepares to lay him to rest, his legacy remains a beacon of dedication and resilience.