Ruto’s ICC Lawyer Has Withdrawn From The IEBC Race
On Thursday, April 10, lawyer Katwa Kigen withdrew from the ongoing Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) Commissioner interviews, expressing doubts about his qualifications for the position.
Kigen stated that he wished to avoid ‘unnecessary diversion’ from the commission’s important job.
Katwa Drops Out Of Race:
— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) April 10, 2025
Lawyer Katwa Kigen withdraws from the IEBC race
Katwa was shortlisted for the IEBC commissioner slot#CitizenBriefs @Ole_tenges pic.twitter.com/9M56Rtys4Z
The well-known lawyer represented President William Ruto in his case before the International Criminal Court (ICC) for alleged involvement in the 2007/2008 post-election violence.
Kigen withdrew prior to his scheduled interview with the IEBC Selection Panel that day.
His nomination for the commissioner position sparked controversy, with many questioning his impartiality if chosen owing to his close connection and relationship with Ruto as his lawyer.
Former Law Society of Kenya (LSK) President Nelson Havi has expressed reservations about the President’s lawyer’s responsibility and honesty while running for the position.
He questioned how someone who had served as the Head of State for almost 20 years could run for a position in which the President himself was a contender.
“We have a problem of accountability and integrity in Kenya. Why would the President’s known advocate for over 20 years apply to serve in the IEBC to oversee an election where the President will be a candidate? Is the candidate stupid or does he think all Kenyans are stupid?” he posed.
This recent development coincides with increased scrutiny of the IEBC Selection Panel.
This comes after it was revealed that six individuals were “sneaked” onto the list of candidates to be interviewed for the commissioner position.
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This unexpected move has prompted outrage, raising concerns about openness and accountability in a process that has already been chastised by leaders opposed to the existing leadership.
The Selection Panel began interviews for shortlisted applicants on March 24, beginning with those vying for the chairperson position. The interviews were completed on March 26.
Interviews for the Commissioner seats began on March 27 and are set to continue until April 24.
Following the interviews, the Selection Panel will deliberate before forwarding the nominees’ names to the President.
Ruto’s ICC Lawyer Has Withdrawn From The IEBC Race
