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Wiper party leader Kalonzo Musyoka has added his voice to the ongoing debate on the delayed appointment of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) commissioners.

In a statement via his X account on Thursday, December 19, 2024, while in Karurumo, Runyenjes in Embu County, Kalonzo, who is not pleased with the delay vowed to lead demonstrations if President William Ruto does not constitute the electoral body before March 2025.

“Watu Wa Karurumo wamechangamka! Before March next year, if IEBC has not yet been formed, I will lead Maandamano,” he stated.

Kalonzo on ODM’s stand

The self-proclaimed opposition leader went on to dare the leadership of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) to declare the party’s stand before the New Year noting that they have to make it clear whether they are in the government or opposition.

We also want ODM to tell us before the New Year 2025: Are you in the opposition or in government? You have to have a clear stand.

Lenaola’s remarks

His sentiments come after Supreme Court Judge Isaac Lenaola on December 7, 2024, urged the government to expedite the reconstitution of IEBC to enhance its preparedness ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Speaking at the Regional Conference on the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI), digital, and social media in elections in Kenya, Lenaola stated he does not understand how Members of Parliament can continue to pass laws on other subjects while ignoring the most important one.

Lenaola thus challenged the netizens to start the hashtag #AppointIEBCNow.

“I am one of those judges who are not limited in expressing my mind. I speak my mind. Mtanipeleka wapi? Si Manyata ni hapa Samburu. I don’t understand why we are busy passing legislation very quickly on other subjects that are politically important, but we don’t look at what is extremely important for this country.

“For example, the Electoral Commission—how can a country like ours stand on her feet if we do not have an electoral commission? Elections are in 2027; this is 2024. When will this commission be prepared?” he posed.

“But why don’t we use social media to impact legislation? Why don’t we have a hashtag, ‘Appoint IEBC Now,’ and spread it? Those who have an opportunity will follow it,” he added.

Watu Wa Karurumo wamechangamka!

Uwongo wa Kasongo umefika mwisho!

Before March next year, if IEBC has not yet been formed, I will lead Maandamano.

We also want ODM to tell us before the New Year 2025: Are you in the opposition or in government?

You have to have a clear… pic.twitter.com/JrcrjY9t6f

— Kalonzo Musyoka (@skmusyoka) December 19, 2024