Wafula Chebukati Biography: Education, Career, Challenges & Death

Renowned Kenyan lawyer and electoral consultant Wafula Chebukati most famously served as the chairperson of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC). Born in Nanyuki on 19 December 1961.

He started his studies at Peter’s Mumias High School, went on to Bokoli Secondary School, and completed his education at Lenana High School. Before starting his studies at the University of Nairobi. In University studies, he earned a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) at the University of Nairobi, he enrolled in the Kenya School of Law where he was admitted as an advocate and thereafter registered under the bar. His love of legal affairs and governance prompted him to focus on business law, governance, and electoral concerns.

Career

Chebukati enjoyed a long career in legal practice before entering the IEBC.  Started Cootow & Associates Advocates, a professional practice offering public and commercial law. His background in business law and government helped him to become a major player in the Kenyan legal scene.

Apart from his personal law practice, Chebukati was also into politics. He vied for the Saboti parliamentary seat in 2007 with the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) banner.

Appointment as IEBC Chairman

Originally nominated by then-President Uhuru Kenyatta as the chairperson of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), Wafula Chebukati took over in January 2017. He took over during a pivotal period as Kenya was preparing for the August 2017 General election.

Legal conflicts and political tensions, among other difficulties the election process presented, tested his leadership.

Citing anomalies and illegalities, the Supreme Court annulled the results of the 2017 presidential election. October 2017 witnessed a rerun election whereby President Uhuru Kenyatta was declared the winner.

Challenges and Achievements

Praise and criticism abound over Chebukati’s leadership at the IEBC. He supported openness and election changes but encountered opposition from political leaders as well. Internal strife inside the commission, resignations of top officials.

Notwithstanding these difficulties, Chebukati was quite important in supervising the General Election for 2022. Emphasizing election integrity, he brought forth improved technologies including the Kenya Integrated Election Management System (KIEMS) to guarantee accurate results. Following the election, he declared William Ruto the presidential candidate; this judgment was contested in the Supreme Court but finally maintained.

Post-IEBC Life and Legacy

Wafula Chebukati was vocal on issues of electoral governance and democracy following his January 2023 departure from office. Participating in debates on election changes in Kenya and beyond Africa, he offered ideas on how to strengthen democratic systems. As IEBC chairman oversaw two pivotal elections influencing Kenya’s political scene, his legacy as such remains important.

Wafula Chebukati’s Death

Wafula Chebukati died on 20 February 2025 at age 63 years in Nairobi of brain cancer, leaving behind a legacy of electoral reforms and government. Political leaders, attorneys, and foreign observers who understood his influence on Kenya’s democratic processes paid honors to his demise. Many praised his tenacity and will to guarantee honest elections. Years to come will find his contribution to Kenya’s political scene remembered. He was burried on 8th March 2025 at his Sabata garden in Kitale, Trans Zoia County.

Net Worth

Chebukati’s Net worth was approximately 100 million Kenyan shillings before he died on 2025.

Conclusion

From a legal specialist to head of Kenya’s election commission, Wafula Chebukati’s path highlights his commitment to democracy and government. He stayed dedicated to respecting the rule of law in front of great strain and difficulties. His contributions to Kenya’s election process still shape debates on democracy and electoral integrity both inside and outside of the nation.

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