Youth leaders threaten legal action over IEBC selection panel shortlist

‎ IEBC selection panel Chairperson Nelson Makanda (centre), flanked by Vice Chair Lindah Kiome and other panelists, addresses the press in Naivasha, Nakuru County, on Tuesday, February 11, 2025. [Kipsang Joseph, Standard]

Two youth leaders have threatened to sue the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) selection panel, accusing it of excluding young people from the recruitment process.

Alex Matere of the Notable National Youth Leaders Caucus and Kidi Mwaga of the Inter-Party Youth Forum claim the panel, chaired by Nelson Makanda, deliberately left out youth applicants.

In a letter dated Thursday, March 14, Matere and Mwaga demanded a public explanation of the criteria used to eliminate youth candidates.

They also called for an immediate review of the shortlist to include qualified young applicants.

“Our clients demand a clear and public explanation from the selection panel detailing the criteria used to eliminate youth applicants from consideration.

An immediate review of the selection process to incorporate qualified youth candidates who meet the constitutional and legal requirements,” the letter reads in part.

The duo argued that the process was flawed, alleging that the outcome was predetermined.

They warned they would move to court if their grievances were not addressed by Saturday, March 16.

This follows the panel’s recent release of the final list of applicants set to be interviewed for the positions of IEBC chairperson and commissioners.