Honoring Wafula Wanyonyi Chebukati: A Legacy of Integrity and Service
A large crowd of Kenyans gathered to honor former IEBC chair Wafula Chebukati at his home in Kiminini Sub County. Tributes from political leaders, including Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, praised Chebukati’s integrity, dedication, and historical role in overseeing three presidential elections. His wife emphasized his generosity and the effect of social media on the family. Additionally, political leaders adhered to guidelines prohibiting any political regalia or utterances during the ceremony.
On Saturday, a significant number of Kenyans gathered to pay their respects to the late Wafula Wanyonyi Chebukati, the former chairperson of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), during his final journey at his home in Sabata, Kiminini Sub County. The event, anticipated to exhibit intense political sentiment, transformed into a ceremony honoring Chebukati’s integrity and service to the nation.
Prominent figures leading the tributes included Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, who hailed Chebukati as a dedicated public servant impervious to corruption. The Speaker of the National Assembly, Moses Wetangula, emphasized his commitment to the rule of law, noting Chebukati’s unique achievement of overseeing three presidential elections. Wetangula stated, “With the divided IEBC of 2022, not many would have managed to deliver a credible exercise under pressure the way Chebukati did.”
Senate Leader Amason Kingi recognized Chebukati as a legal role model, advocating for thoughtful discourse. Kingi remarked on the tremendous respect Chebukati received across Africa, emphasizing his enduring legacy in Kenyan history. Similarly, Aaron Cheruiyot, the Leader of Majority in the Senate, acknowledged Chebukati’s unwavering dedication to truth and integrity in service delivery, encouraging others to follow his example.
Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya referred to Chebukati as a hero, committed to his principles and diligent in his responsibilities. Mary Chebukati, the deceased’s wife and Chairperson of the Commission on Revenue Allocation, praised her husband’s generosity while lamenting the adverse effects of social media following the contentious August 2022 elections.
The late Chebukati is survived by his wife and three children: Jonathan, Emmanuel, and Racheal. His parents, Wafula Chebukati Senior and Joyinah Wafula, fondly remembered him as a resilient individual striving for the best. A significant group of lawmakers, senators, and governors were in attendance, demonstrating broad political support.
Political leaders adhered to government-imposed guidelines that prohibited political attire and statements, emphasizing a respectful, non-partisan atmosphere during this solemn event. Trans Nzoia County Commissioner Gideon Oyagi reminded attendees of the need for decorum, ensuring direct political expressions were kept at bay during the service.
The remembrance of Wafula Wanyonyi Chebukati highlighted his legacy as an honorable leader committed to the integrity of Kenya’s electoral process. Tributes from various political leaders underscored his unyielding character and dedication to service, while his family’s reflections brought a personal touch to the proceedings. Ultimately, Chebukati’s life and contributions to the nation remain a significant chapter in Kenya’s history, cherished by many across diverse communities.
Original Source: www.kenyanews.go.ke
