President Ruto signs historic IEBC bill at KICC, first outside State House

President William Ruto when he assented to IEBC Amendment Bill, 2024 at KICC in Nairobi. [Denish Ochieng, Standard]

Kenya made history on Tuesday, July 9, after President William Ruto assented to the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) Amendment Bill, 2024 at KICC in Nairobi.

 During the signing ceremony, Ruto affirmed his commitment to fully implementing the new electoral law, in line with the recommendations of the National Dialogue Committee (NADCO) report.

“This historic action paves the way for appointing the selection panel that will recruit IEBC’s new commissioners. I am fully behind the process and committed to ensuring its full implementation,” said Ruto.

The event was the first time a bill was signed into law outside the State House.

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, and former Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka attended the event.

KICC was chosen amid public protests in Nairobi’s central business district triggered by anti-Finance Bill protests underscored the need for a properly constituted electoral body.

Hosting the signing at KICC, a location affected by the protests, highlighted its role as a unifying landmark.

KICC Chief Executive Officer James Mwaura noted, “I am glad that the KICC is making history once again by playing host to this event that will bring calm to the country.

Azimio co-principle Kalonzo Musyoka said that hosting the event at KICC symbolised national unity.

KICC hosted the 59th African Development Bank Group Annual Meetings in May, attended by over ten African presidents.

The African Union Advisory Board against Corruption has committed to rescheduling the 8th African Anti-Corruption Dialogue.

 The event was initially set for July 9, 2024, and will now include a virtual commemoration of African Anti-Corruption Day on July 11, 2024.

President Ruto said professionalism and integrity are crucial for those overseeing elections.

He noted the spirit of unity, bipartisanship, and consensus-building.

 He expressed his commitment to supporting further national consensus initiatives to address Kenya’s economic challenges and future aspirations.