The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) of Kenya has released a list of nine candidates shortlisted for the position of Commission Secretary and Chief Executive Officer. Among them is Halakhe Waqo, the former Chief Executive Officer of the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC). Waqo will be appearing before the selection panel for an interview on November 12, 2026.
The interviews for the shortlisted candidates will be conducted over two days, November 12 and 13, 2026. According to the IEBC, candidates will be informed individually of their interview venue. The commission has warned that canvassing will lead to automatic disqualification, emphasizing that the recruitment process will be based on merit through fair and open competition.
Other candidates shortlisted for the IEBC CEO position include Anthony Omerikwa from Busia, Harley Mutisya from Makueni, Edmund Odiwuor Malitt from Homabay, Andrew Gitau Kimani from Nairobi, Mohamed Abdullahi Abdi from Wajir, Edward Katama Ngeywa from Trans Nzoia, Martina Wato Yattani from Marsabit, and Nelly Ilongo from Taita Taveta.
To proceed with the recruitment process, candidates are required to present original identification documents, academic and professional certificates, transcripts, testimonials, and clearance certificates from various agencies. These include the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission, Directorate of Criminal Investigations, Kenya Revenue Authority, Higher Education Loans Board, and a registered Credit Reference Bureau.
The IEBC is currently preparing for the 2027 General Election and aims to fill the substantive position of Commission Secretary and CEO following a series of acting appointments. In August 2026, IEBC Chairperson Erastus Ethekon appointed Ruth Kulundu as Acting CEO and Commission Secretary for two months or until the recruitment of a substantive office holder was concluded.
The successful candidate will oversee the day-to-day administration of the IEBC Secretariat, implement commission decisions, manage finances, and coordinate preparations for the 2027 General Election. This position is crucial for the effective administration of electoral processes in Kenya.
The recruitment process comes at a critical time as Kenya prepares for the 2027 General Election. The IEBC has been working to ensure a smooth electoral process, and the appointment of a substantive CEO is a key step in these preparations.
Key points
- Halakhe Waqo, former EACC CEO, is among nine candidates shortlisted for the IEBC CEO position.
- Interviews for the shortlisted candidates will be conducted on November 12 and 13, 2026.
- The successful candidate will be responsible for overseeing the IEBC Secretariat and coordinating preparations for the 2027 General Election.
