I can handle pressure of being IEBC chair, says Ethekon

In the ongoing interviews seeking the chair of Kenya's electoral agency, former Turkana County Attorney Erastus Ethekon has expressed confidence in his ability to handle external pressures if appointed as the next IEBC boss.

Appearing before the Selection Panel in South C Nairobi, Ethekon acknowledged the complexities of the role, emphasizing his understanding of the challenges it entails.

He noted that even the application process itself sparked mixed reactions, with some encouraging him to pursue the position while others discouraged him, warning of potential risks.

“Some people congratulated me, saying I had what it takes, while others urged me not to go for it, predicting dire consequences,” he said.

Despite these differing opinions, Ethekon maintained that his decision was personal, underscoring that the constitution is clear—the role must be filled by a Kenyan and cannot be outsourced.

“After deep reflection, I realized that if I didn’t apply, another Kenyan would have to step up unless we were considering outsourcing the position,” he stated.

He further emphasized that since the law mandates that a Kenyan citizen must take up the role, someone has to do it—hence his decision to apply, fully aware of the pressures involved.

Ethekon holds a Master of Laws degree in Oil and Gas from the University of Derby in the United Kingdom.

He is currently a consulting partner at Northern Consulting Solutions and E. Ethekon & Co. Advocates.

Also scheduled for interviews on the second day are Francis Kissinger, Jacob Muvengei, and Joy Brenda Masinde.

On Monday, four other candidates—Abdulqadir Lorot, Charles Nyachae, Anne Amadi, and Edward Ngeyaa—faced the panel.

A total of 11 candidates were shortlisted for the position.

The interviews are set to conclude on March 26, after which the selection process for commission members will begin.