Wolf pushed out of Ipsos with ban on political polls

iPSOS lead researcher Tom Wolf on presidential survey on July 1, 2017. [David Gichuru]

Tom Wolf, a lead researcher with Ipsos Synovate, has quit his position at the research firm after it stopped carrying out political opinion polls.

Wolf issued a statement saying his position had been declared redundant following Ipsos’ self-imposed ban on political opinion polls.

He said he had ceased being an employee of the pollster beginning March 31.

"On the basis of that decision, it was judged that my position as a research analyst has become redundant. I was, therefore, given a notice, which took effect on March 31, this year. I am, therefore, no longer associated with Ipsos," said Wolf.

The researcher said Ipsos-Kenya had not released any poll results since September last year, which is as a result of the decision made by the mother company in Paris, France on political polls.

Wolf said: “As far as I know, there has been no Kenya Government interference, which has led to this decision.”

In the statement, Wolf said he had worked on public affairs surveys and related research since 2005 with Steadman, Synovate and Ipsos. 

“I am grateful for having had this opportunity, given that these scientifically designed and implemented surveys have revealed the awareness, perceptions and aspirations held by Kenyans regarding many critical issues,” said Wolf. 

“I believe that these surveys have contributed to the expansion of the democratic space by providing citizens with the opportunity to make their voices heard on a regular basis.” 

The American also thanked Kenyans for the support given him since 2005, adding that he did not intend to exit the country.

“I am extremely grateful for the support I have received from countless Kenyans of all walks of life over these years,” he said.  

“As I have no intention of leaving Kenya, I will be exploring other opportunities here, where my knowledge and skills can contribute to the country’s development.”