Wafula Chebukati, who led Kenya’s electoral commission through two of the country’s most contentious elections, has passed away at the age of 64.

His family confirmed that he died at 11 p.m. on Thursday while receiving treatment at Nairobi Hospital.

Chebukati had been admitted in critical condition, with sources indicating that he was battling cancer.

His health struggles had remained largely private until recent reports emerged about his deteriorating condition.

Years at IEBC: A tenure of defining moments

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Appointed in January 2017 by then-President Uhuru Kenyatta, Chebukati took charge of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) during a politically charged period.

His leadership saw two major elections that shaped Kenya’s political history.

The 2017 election was annulled by the Supreme Court due to irregularities, forcing a repeat poll that opposition leader Raila Odinga boycotted.

In 2022, Chebukati declared William Ruto as the winner of the presidential election, a decision that was contested by four dissenting commissioners—later known as the "Cherera Four"—but upheld by the Supreme Court.

While his supporters praised him for standing firm, critics accused him of bias.

Beyond elections: a life of service

Before his tenure at the IEBC, Chebukati was a respected advocate and also served as chairman of Nyali and Mombasa Golf Clubs.

His contributions to public service earned him the Elder of the Order of the Golden Heart (EGH) award from President Ruto in 2023.

His wife, Mary Chebukati, was appointed Chairperson of the Commission on Revenue Allocation the same year.

Following news of his passing, leaders across the political spectrum paid tribute. President William Ruto expressed his sorrow, stating:

“I have received the news of the passing of former Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission Chairperson Wafula Chebukati with profound sorrow. Chebukati was a principled and diligent leader who served the nation with integrity. His death is a great loss to our country. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends during this difficult time. Rest In Peace.”

Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi remembered him as a resilient figure in Kenya’s governance, stating:

“I am deeply saddened by the passing of Wafula Wanyonyi Chebukati, the former Chairperson of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC). A man of integrity and conviction, he dedicated his life to upholding democracy, serving our nation with diligence and an unwavering sense of duty. I will always remember him as a man of resilience and wisdom, who navigated challenging moments with courage, fairness, and an unshakable commitment to transparency. His contributions to electoral governance will remain a lasting inspiration to those who champion justice and good leadership. Beyond his public service, he was a devoted family man, and my thoughts are with his loved ones during this difficult time. May his soul rest in eternal peace.”

Speaker of the National Assembly, Moses Wetang’ula, paid homage to Chebukati’s service in both the legal and electoral fields, saying:

“As an advocate of great repute, Mr. Chebukati embodied the dignity and integrity of the legal profession. During his tenure as Chairman of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission, he carried out his responsibilities with remarkable courage, fidelity to the Constitution, and an unwavering commitment to justice. Even in the face of immense challenges, he remained resolute, guided by his oath of office and the principles of fairness and transparency. His passing is a profound loss not only to his family but also to the legal fraternity, the electoral governance space, and the nation as a whole. His legacy of integrity and service will continue to inspire future generations of legal minds and public servants dedicated to upholding the rule of law and advancing democracy.”

Former IEBC Commissioner Roselyn Akombe kept her tribute brief, saying, "Rest in Peace, Mr. Chairman."

Chebukati retired from the IEBC in January 2023 after completing his six-year tenure.

His legacy remains intertwined with Kenya’s electoral history—marked by resilience, scrutiny, and the delicate task of upholding democracy in a politically charged environment.