Every five years, as Kenyans head to the ballot, anxiety grips the nation.

The one institution that holds the hopes and fears of millions is the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC).

Unfortunately, instead of being a symbol of trust, the IEBC has become a flashpoint of controversy, suspicion, and disappointment.

Allegations of election bungling, delays in announcing presidential results, and perceived bias have plagued nearly every electoral cycle.

Each time, we are left wondering: can we trust the electoral system? Can we trust the referees?

As the process of selecting a new IEBC team is underway, the need for a credible, independent, and professional commission has never been more urgent.

Confidence

Kenyans are watching closely.

They want – and deserve – a team that will inspire confidence, not erode it.

The absence of a fully functional IEBC for months has already affected democratic processes.

Several regions have gone without representation due to postponed by-elections. Voters feel shortchanged, and trust in the system continues to wear thin.

This trust deficit didn’t start yesterday.

In the past, opposition leaders – most notably Raila Odinga – have repeatedly raised the red flag, accusing the IEBC of irregularities and mismanagement.

The fallout has often been national tension, court battles, and in some cases, violence.

The last commission was disbanded under a cloud of controversy. Yet, the same questions persist.

If Kenya is to break this cycle, the reconstituted IEBC must be fundamentally different.

The commissioners must be above political influence, committed to transparency, and competent enough to manage the complex logistics of a modern election.

Delays in tallying or transmitting presidential results must become a thing of the past.

In this digital age, and era of the Gen Z that are rooting for change, there is no excuse for the confusion and drama that often follows voting day.

The commission’s systems must be robust, secure, and trusted by both the public and the political class.

Logistics

More importantly, the IEBC must not just focus on election-day logistics – it must rebuild its relationship with the people.

In my honest observation, civic education, open communication, and proactive engagement with stakeholders will go a long way in restoring public faith.

Despite the controversies surrounding top IEBC jobs, many Kenyans still offer themselves to serve. This is commendable. But the task ahead is not easy.

The weight of the nation’s peace and democratic progress rests on their shoulders. The selection panel must get it right – not for politicians, but for the people.

As Kenya prepares for upcoming by-elections and future general polls, the message is clear: we don’t just want an IEBC – we want a credible IEBC.

One that Kenyans can trust with their vote, their voice, and their future.

Let’s wait and see. In the meantime, we must always be ready to use our votes wisely for the common good of all.

Let’s go for values that will uphold our democracy, protect our sovereignty and national values.

God bless Kenya. God bless our people.

— The writer is a Senior Writer, Consulting Editor and a commentator on governance and democracy; [email protected]