CS Ruku urges newly appointed IEBC chair to hit the ground running

Geoffrey Ruku,Cabinet Secretary for Public Service, Human Capital Development, and Special Programmes, in Mwakirunge. [File. Standard]

Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku has called on the newly reconstituted Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to expedite preparations for upcoming by-elections, including the one in Mbeere North, Embu County.

Speaking during a church service in Nakuru on Sunday, Ruku stressed the importance of the electoral body's readiness to fulfill both constitutional obligations and national expectations ahead of the 2027 General Elections.

"We are asking the IEBC to move quickly we can't have people who are not thinking clearly; they are inciting Kenyans day after day. Let us meet them at the ballot box and send them home," Ruku stated.

The Mbeere North seat became vacant following Ruku's appointment to the Cabinet.

He pointed out that any delays in electoral processes could undermine Kenya's democratic foundations and urged the IEBC to quickly establish regulatory and logistical frameworks for a smooth electoral process.

Ruku also directed his comments toward opposition leaders, accusing them of seeking shortcuts to power instead of preparing for the elections.

"President William Ruto is focused on delivering on his promises. Let us allow the democratic process to unfold," he added.

The IEBC was reconstituted earlier this month, with Erastus Ethekon appointed as chairperson alongside six new commissioners.