Fahima Abdallah elected IEBC Vice Chair in first meeting of new commissioners

Fahima Araphat Abdallah has been elected as the new Vice Chairperson of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC).

Fahima was elected by the IEBC Commissioners during a plenary meeting held barely hours after their swearing-in on Friday.

“Following the gazettement and subsequent swearing in of the Chairperson and members of the Commission, we are pleased to announce to members of the public and stakeholders that the Commission in its 288th Plenary meeting elected Commissioner Fahima Araphat Abdallah as the Vice Chairperson of the Commission. The Plenary meeting was held at the Commission Boardroom today Friday 11th July 2025,” IEBC Chair Erastus Ethekon announced in a press release.

Ethekon earlier vowed to diligently discharge his duties and safeguard Kenyans' interests by ensuring that every vote counts during elections.

Speaking at the Supreme Court building following his swearing-in alongside six new IEBC Commissioners, Ethekon explained that free and credible elections are the foundations of a democratic society, adding that his appointment comes at a crucial time for the country. 

He pointed out that all Kenyans have the power to build a peaceful and secure democracy through their votes.

"Free and fair elections are the cornerstone of our democratic society. The IEBC is entrusted with the solemn responsibility that every citizen's voice is not only heard but honoured," he stated.  

"My first loyalty is to the People of Kenya who hold the sovereign power under Article 1 of the Constitution. I urge all Kenyans to ensure that we use the opportunity to build a peaceful, stable and secure democracy."

While acknowledging the challenges that befell his predecessors, Ethekon highlighted the impact of misinformation, disinformation and fake news; factors that can cause a nation to spiral out of control.

"We have an opportunity to work with the news outlets to ensure that we educate, inform and focus on factual truths," Ethekon noted. 

"I call upon all Kenyans and other stakeholders that as we plan for the by-elections and the General Election that we work together to have a peaceful election. A credible election is not only IEBC's mandate but a collective responsibility."

Ethekon will be required to lead his team comprising Ann Njeri Nderitu, Moses Alutalala Mukhwana, Mary Karen Sorobit, Hassan Noor Hassan, Francis Odhiambo Aduol, and Fahima Araphat Abdallah who were appointed as Commissioners. 

The fully reconstituted IEBC team comes at a critical time as the country prepares for the upcoming by-elections and lays the groundwork for the 2027 General Election.