MPs pledge to conclude IEBC talks in 30 days
By Rawlings, May 19, 2023
The reconstitution of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) will be prioritised when the bipartisan committee of Parliament resumes its sittings next week.
Speaking at the Bomas of Kenya after a meeting to discuss interim issues and set the agenda for next week, the committee co-chairs said the issue of appointing new electoral chiefs should be concluded within 30 days.
“We have discussed the question of IEBC Selection Panel and reconstitution as you have noted from the two teams, the IEBC issue is common. We have agreed that it is one of utmost importance,” said the committee co-chair Otiende Amollo.
Team facilitation
At the same time, the members said that they had written to the Speakers of the National Assembly and Senate seeking recognition and facilitation of the team.
In the letter, the committee wants the Speakers to grant permission of absence for the members in the duration of the talks.
“We have done a letter to the two Speakers which will confirm the existence of the committee as set up by the principals and seek the recognition and support to the committee,” said Tharaka MP George Murugara, who is co-chair.
IEBC has been operating without commissioners following the expiry of the term of three, resignation of three and the removal of one from office through a tribunal.
The electoral body has been without Commissioners for almost three months.