Anne Atieno Amadi, the nominee for the position of Chairperson of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), appeared before the selection panel in Nairobi today, presenting her credentials and vision for the future of the commission.
During the session, Amadi, former Judiciary Chief Registrar was quizzed on her qualifications, experience, and plans to address the challenges currently facing Kenya’s electoral processes.
Amadi, a seasoned professional with years of experience in governance and public administration, addressed the panel with confidence, outlining her strategies to enhance the transparency, credibility, and efficiency of the IEBC.
Amadi’s extensive professional background includes serving as the Chief Registrar of the Judiciary, where she played a pivotal role in overseeing the judiciary’s operations and implementing reforms aimed at enhancing transparency and accountability.
She has also held leadership positions at the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) and the Electoral Law Reform Commission, where she contributed to policy development and legal reforms aimed at strengthening Kenya’s electoral processes.
Additionally, she has worked with various international organizations, providing legal advice on governance and human rights issues, particularly in the context of elections.
During the interview, She emphasized the need for a stronger, more independent electoral body capable of maintaining public trust and ensuring that future elections are free, fair, and transparent.
“I am committed to ensuring that the IEBC remains an institution that Kenyans can trust and rely on. Our elections must be free of manipulation, transparent, and efficient,” Amadi stated during her interview, adding that her leadership would focus on strengthening the commission’s independence and operational integrity.
“As Chairperson, I will work towards strengthening the commission’s credibility and ensuring that elections are free, fair, and reflect the will of the people.”
The panel members pressed Amadi on the challenges the IEBC has faced in recent years, particularly regarding the credibility of election results, voter registration, and the management of election disputes.
In response, Amadi outlined a comprehensive approach to tackling these issues, focusing on improving voter education, modernizing the electoral system, and implementing stricter measures to prevent electoral malpractice.
Amadi also addressed the ongoing issue of electoral violence, stressing the need for collaboration between the IEBC, law enforcement agencies, and the judiciary to ensure that any electoral-related violence is swiftly addressed and perpetrators are held accountable.
In terms of inclusivity, Amadi emphasized the need to increase voter participation, particularly among marginalized groups such as women, youth, and persons with disabilities.
She promised to implement strategies aimed at improving outreach efforts in underserved areas, ensuring that all Kenyans have the opportunity to participate in the electoral process.
She also highlighted the importance of technological innovation, including the integration of biometric systems, to enhance the transparency of the voting process.
“Technology will be integral to modernizing our elections,” Amadi noted.
“By incorporating innovative solutions, we can ensure a smoother, more efficient electoral process that guarantees the integrity of every vote cast.”
In terms of voter inclusion, Amadi emphasized her commitment to ensuring that all eligible voters, particularly marginalized groups, are fully involved in the electoral process.
She specifically mentioned plans to increase outreach efforts in remote and underserved areas of Kenya, ensuring that no citizen is left behind.
The selection panel also questioned Amadi on how she would handle the political pressures that often arise during elections.
Drawing on her experience as Chief Registrar of the Judiciary, where she navigated the complex political landscape while safeguarding judicial independence, Amadi reiterated the importance of the IEBC’s autonomy.
“I believe the commission must remain free from political influence,” she said.
“My leadership will ensure that the IEBC operates with the highest level of integrity, with decisions made solely in the interest of the people.”
Amadi’s nomination comes at a time when Kenyans are seeking a reform-driven leadership at the IEBC, with many calling for greater transparency and trust in the electoral process.
Her wealth of experience in both governance and election management makes her a strong candidate for the role.
Following the 2022 general elections, there have been calls for electoral reforms and greater transparency within the IEBC to rebuild confidence in the commission’s ability to deliver credible elections.
The panel will now review her submission and qualifications before making a final recommendation to the President for formal appointment.
