Anne Amadi Emerges as Top Contender for IEBC Chair

Former Judiciary Chief Registrar Anne Amadi has emerged as a leading contender for the chairperson position of Kenya’s Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC).

In an interview before the IEBC selection panel, Amadi presented a vision of collaborative leadership, drawing on her extensive experience within the judicial branch. During her presentation to the panel, chaired by Dr. Nelson Makanda, Amadi highlighted her decade-long tenure as Judiciary Chief Registrar.

She argued that her experience working alongside three Chief Justices, managing judicial operations, and navigating complex institutional governance provides her with unique insights into leading the IEBC. Amadi emphasizes her ability to lead under pressure and collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders.

Framing herself as a "unifier," Amadi stresses the critical importance of internal cohesion within the IEBC. She describes the chairperson's role as central to providing stability, strategic direction, and aligning the commission’s efforts with its core mission. She also underscores the necessity of inclusive leadership to motivate commission members toward collective goals.

Amadi further emphasizes the need for a harmonious working relationship between the chairperson and the commission secretary. Reflecting on her experience as Secretary to the Judicial Service Commission, she highlights her understanding of the operational boundaries required for effective leadership and delegation. The selection process, currently underway at Nairobi’s College of Insurance, involves 11 candidates vying for the position.

The successful candidate will succeed Wafula Chebukati, whose term concluded in 2023; he passed away last month.