IEBC Chairperson Nominee Erastus Ethekon Explains Why He’s Leaving AU Job in South Africa for Kenya
Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) Chairperson nominee Erastus Ethekon on Saturday defended his decision to leave a high-profile advisory role at the African Union Development Agency (AUDA) in South Africa to pursue public service back home in Kenya.
Ethekon, who currently resides in Johannesburg, appeared before the National Assembly’s Justice and Legal Affairs Committee (JLAC) for vetting, where lawmakers questioned his commitment to Kenya given his ongoing role at the continental organization.
“I work as the Senior Advisor to the CEO of the African Union Development Agency under the NEPAD framework,” Ethekon explained. “My role involves advising on the nexus between governance, peace, security, and development. But if called upon to serve my country, this is my priority and serving my country will be my pride.”
The nominee emphasized his deep connection to Kenya, stating that despite building a successful career abroad, he remains committed to serving the country that shaped him. “This is my country and I love it very much. That is why I came back and that is why I want to continue serving it,” he told the committee.
JLAC members, led by West Mugirango MP Stephen Mogaka, pressed Ethekon to clarify whether he would fully relinquish his position at the AU should he be appointed IEBC Chair. The committee was keen to understand how he would balance the responsibilities of leading Kenya’s critical electoral body while managing a demanding international role.
In response, Ethekon assured the lawmakers that he would make the IEBC position his primary focus, pledging full commitment to ensuring credible and transparent elections. “There will be no conflict of interest,” he said. “If approved, I will resign from my current position to fully serve the IEBC and the people of Kenya.”
The committee also interrogated his previous work at the United Nations and the relevance of his global experience to the local electoral environment. Ethekon highlighted the synergy between his international work and the demands of leading a national institution, noting that his exposure to governance and security systems across Africa equips him with unique insights into conflict-sensitive electoral processes.
Beyond his international roles, Ethekon served as the County Attorney in Turkana, where he worked for four years under the administration of then-Governor Josphat Nanok. His past association with the former governor raised questions from some lawmakers, who speculated on possible political influence in his nomination.
JLAC Chairperson George Murugara asked Ethekon to disclose whether he had any familial or clan ties to Nanok, amid rumors that his nomination was part of a broader strategy to install a trusted ally of President William Ruto and Nanok at the helm of the electoral commission.
“For the record, Honourable Chairman, not even close, not at the clan level, let alone family,” Ethekon responded. “We come from different villages and have no relationship whatsoever, whether by marriage or extended family. Our engagement was purely professional.”
The IEBC, which plays a pivotal role in overseeing Kenya’s elections, has come under intense public and political scrutiny in recent years, particularly over the credibility of past polls. Ethekon’s nomination to lead the commission comes at a critical juncture as the country begins preparations for the 2027 General Election.
Should he be approved, Ethekon will face the task of rebuilding public trust in the electoral process, ensuring institutional independence, and managing complex political dynamics. His vetting continues to draw significant attention, with Kenyans eager to see whether his international credentials and public pledges of integrity will translate into effective leadership at the IEBC.
The JLAC is expected to present its report on the suitability of Ethekon and other IEBC nominees to Parliament in the coming days.
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IEBC Chairperson Nominee Erastus Ethekon Explains Why He’s Leaving AU Job in South Africa for Kenya