The family of Wafula Chebukati, the former chairperson of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), has revealed that the cause of his death remains unknown following his passing on Thursday night.
Chebukati, who led Kenya’s electoral body through two pivotal general elections, died at the age of 63 in a Nairobi hospital after a prolonged illness.
Eric Nyongesa, a family member, addressed the media earlier today, stating, “The family is yet to make a decision on whether they will do a postmortem. Once the family has also had time to talk to the doctors, then we will be able to explain to the nation what may have caused his death.”
The statement has left many questions unanswered, fuelling speculation about the circumstances surrounding the demise of one of Kenya’s most prominent public figures.
Chebukati had been admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at a Nairobi hospital for nearly a week prior to his death, having initially received treatment at home.
Despite his critical condition being widely reported, the specific nature of his ailment has remained undisclosed, with the family maintaining privacy on the matter. His death was confirmed on Friday morning, sending shockwaves through the nation and prompting an outpouring of tributes from leaders and citizens alike.
President William Ruto led the country in mourning, describing Chebukati as “a principled and diligent leader who served the nation with integrity.”
In a statement released on Friday, Ruto added, “His death is a great loss to our country. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends during this difficult time.”
Chebukati’s tenure as IEBC Chairperson, spanning from January 2017 to January 2023, was marked by significant milestones and controversies.
He oversaw the 2017 General Election, which included a historic repeat presidential election following a Supreme Court annulment, and the 2022 General Election, during which he declared Ruto the winner amid dissent from some commissioners.
His steadfast leadership during these turbulent periods earned him both praise and criticism, cementing his legacy as a central figure in Kenya’s democratic journey.
A lawyer by profession, Chebukati founded the Nairobi-based law firm Cootow & Associate Advocates in 2006 before resigning in 2017 to take up the IEBC role.
He completed a full six-year term, a rare feat for an IEBC chairperson, and retired in January 2023. In recognition of his service, he was awarded the Elder of the Order of the Golden Heart (EGH) by President Ruto.
As the family deliberates on the next steps, including whether to conduct a postmortem, the nation awaits further clarity on the cause of Chebukati’s death.
For now, Kenya mourns the loss of a figure whose contributions to the country’s electoral process remain indelible, even as the mystery surrounding his final days lingers.
