IEBC Chair Interviews: I have experience in high-pressure roles, says Amadi

Former Judiciary Chief Registrar Anne Amadi said her extensive experiences in high-pressure roles within the Judiciary make her the most qualified candidate for the position of IEBC chairperson.

Appearing before the Nelson Makanfa-led panel during the interview, Amadi pointed to her tenure as Chief Judiciary Registrar, where she worked closely with three Chief Justices, gaining valuable insights and expertise.

Amadi emphasized that the IEBC chairperson role demands strong leadership, sound judgment, and the ability to engage effectively with various stakeholders, qualities she has honed throughout her career.

She also described herself as a natural unifier, having navigated demanding institutional environments successfully.

Amadi highlighted that her experience as Judiciary Chief Registrar and Secretary to the Judicial Service Commission provided her with a strong grasp of how commissions function.

"I served as a secretary to the National Council on the Administration of Justice, a role that required extensive stakeholder engagement, strong communication skills, and governance expertise," she remarked.

"This experience has significantly exposed me to governance dynamics, all of which are essential skills for the position of IEBC Chair."

She further explained that the IEBC chairperson plays a pivotal role in guiding the commission, ensuring stability, and shaping its strategic direction.

According to Amadi, strong leadership is essential in setting the commission’s agenda and rallying members toward a common goal.

Amadi lined out the importance of a strong working relationship between the commission chairperson and the secretary.

"With my experience as a secretary in a demanding institution, I have a clear understanding of the chairperson’s role and how to maintain proper boundaries to avoid overreach," she told the panel.

She retired from the Judiciary in 2024 after a decade of service as the institution’s accounting officer.

The selection panel, chaired by Dr. Nelson Makanda, is currently conducting interviews for 11 shortlisted candidates vying for the position of IEBC chairperson.

The successful candidate will take over from the late Wafula Chebukati, who passed away last month after completing his six-year term in 2023.

The interviews are currently being held at the College of Insurance in South C, Nairobi.