Commissioner Fahima Araphat Abdallah elected IEBC vice chairperson
Fahima Araphat Abdallah has been elected vice chairperson of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), becoming the first to hold the post under the newly reconstituted team.
Her election took place during the Commission’s 288th plenary session held just hours after the swearing-in ceremony on Friday, July 11, 2025.
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“Following the gazettement and subsequent swearing-in of the Chairperson and members of the Commission, we are pleased to announce to members of the public and stakeholders that Commissioner Fahima Araphat Abdallah has been elected Vice Chairperson during the Commission’s 288th Plenary held today at the Commission Boardroom,” read the IEBC statement.
Strengthening democracy
Speaking shortly after taking the oath of office at the Supreme Court alongside six new commissioners, Ethekon underscored the role of credible polls in strengthening democracy. He said his appointment comes at a pivotal time for the country.
“Free and fair elections are the cornerstone of our democratic society. The IEBC is entrusted with the solemn responsibility that every citizen’s voice is not only heard but honoured,” he said.
He reminded Kenyans of their constitutional power, urging unity in building a secure and democratic nation. “My first loyalty is to the People of Kenya who hold sovereign power under Article 1 of the Constitution. I urge all Kenyans to use this opportunity to build a peaceful, stable and secure democracy,” he added.
Addressing the challenges facing the electoral body, Ethekon cited the dangers of fake news and misinformation, warning of their potential to destabilise the nation.
“We have an opportunity to work with the media to ensure that we educate, inform and focus on factual truths,” he noted. “I call upon all Kenyans and stakeholders to work together as we prepare for the by-elections and the General Election. A credible election is not just the mandate of IEBC but a shared national responsibility.”
The new commissioners, Ann Njeri Nderitu, Moses Alutalala Mukhwana, Mary Karen Sorobit, Hassan Noor Hassan, Francis Odhiambo Aduol, and Fahima Araphat Abdallah, join Ethekon to complete the Commission.
The fully constituted IEBC assumes office at a crucial time as the country heads into several by-elections and sets the stage for the 2027 General Election.
