Simiyu vows faster election results as IEBC chair candidates face integrity test

Saul Simiyu Wasilwa, a candidate for the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) chairperson position, has pledged to revamp election technology to ensure presidential results are announced before midnight on election night.

Appearing before the Nelson Makanda-led IEBC selection panel on Wednesday, March 26, Simiyu criticised the current transmission system, saying it fails at crucial stages of the electoral process.

 He proposed dedicated channels for each ward to relay real-time results for all six elective positions.

“Instead of using one line of communication to relay results from all over the country, let’s have a dedicated virtual machine for each ward to avoid jams,” said Simiyu.

“I expect that with these measures in place, we should have the results by 9 p.m. or midnight. We can’t take the seven days we’ve taken before,” he added. 

Simiyu, the last of 11 candidates interviewed, said he would prioritise pending by-elections, boundary delimitation, and preparations for the 2027 elections if confirmed.

He added that under his leadership, the IEBC secretariat would handle administrative tasks independently, while the commission would focus on oversight and resolving issues through specialised committees. 

He argued that the commission’s work, often seen as minimal, should be full time.

However, his interview took a turn when panelists questioned his integrity over allegations that he had practised law without a valid practising certificate.

Despite his insistence that he had applied for renewal, his explanation failed to convince the panel.

“The whole of January and February you were practising without a certificate, which is irregular,” noted panelist Linda Kiome.

Hailing from Bungoma, Simiyu has had an extensive legal career, including two years at Wetangula and Co. Advocates. 

He also served as Nzoia Sugar Company secretary for five years before becoming its managing director for two terms from 2009.