IEBC Chairperson Nominee Erastus Ethekon Clarifies His Ties to Josphat Nanok, President Ruto
NAIROBI, Kenya – May 31, 2025 – IEBC Chairperson nominee Erastus Ethekon on Saturday moved to clear the air over his alleged connections to former Turkana Governor Josphat Nanok and President William Ruto, amid growing scrutiny over the transparency and neutrality of his nomination.
Appearing before the National Assembly’s Justice and Legal Affairs Committee (JLAC) for vetting, Ethekon faced pointed questions regarding claims that his nomination was politically influenced. JLAC Chairperson George Murugara specifically raised concerns about an alleged personal relationship between Ethekon and Nanok, who now serves as a close political ally of President Ruto.
“For the record, Honourable Chairman, not even close, not at the clan level, let alone family,” Ethekon stated firmly when asked if he had familial ties to Nanok. “We come from different villages and have no relationship whatsoever, whether by marriage or extended family. Our engagement was purely professional.”
The question of political affiliation has been a central issue in Ethekon’s vetting, with critics suggesting his nomination could be part of a calculated move by the executive to secure influence over the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) ahead of the 2027 General Election. However, Ethekon dismissed such claims, asserting his independence and commitment to public service.
“I have served in various capacities under different administrations, both at home and abroad. My loyalty has always been to the Constitution and the people of Kenya, not to individuals,” he said.
Ethekon’s tenure as Turkana County Attorney from 2014 to 2018 under Governor Nanok sparked interest from MPs, with some suggesting that the professional ties may have extended into political loyalty. But Ethekon remained adamant that their relationship was strictly defined by their roles in county governance.
“During my time as County Attorney, my job was legal in nature—drafting county laws, advising the executive on legal matters, and ensuring governance aligned with the Constitution,” he explained. “There was no political engagement or endorsement.”
He further emphasized that his current and previous roles, including his position as Senior Advisor to the CEO of the African Union Development Agency under the NEPAD framework, reflect his commitment to integrity and accountability in governance.
“Those who know me know that I operate on merit. I have never been driven by political expediency. I came back to Kenya to contribute to credible, fair, and peaceful elections,” Ethekon stated.
Members of the committee also pressed him to declare whether he had received any backing from the Office of the President or political actors in securing the nomination. Ethekon firmly denied any undue influence.
“Nobody lobbied for me. I applied for the position, underwent the same rigorous process as all other applicants, and here I am. The system must be trusted to work without speculation,” he responded.
The IEBC, Kenya’s electoral watchdog, has historically been at the center of political tension, especially during general elections. With the next national poll scheduled for 2027, the choice of who leads the commission is under intense public scrutiny.
Ethekon acknowledged the weight of the responsibility should he be approved, noting that the credibility of the IEBC depends on its leadership being above reproach. “Perceptions matter, but they must not override facts. I am not a political appointee—I am a professional ready to serve my country,” he said.
As the vetting process continues, Ethekon’s defense of his independence and rejection of political ties will be critical in shaping how Parliament—and the public—view his suitability for the job. JLAC is expected to submit its report to Parliament in the coming days for final approval or rejection of his nomination.
Whether Ethekon will secure the role remains to be seen, but his response to the allegations of political favoritism has added a crucial layer to the ongoing national conversation about the integrity of public appointments.
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IEBC Chairperson Nominee Erastus Ethekon Clarifies His Ties to Josphat Nanok, President Ruto