President Ruto signs a Bill outside State House for the first time

The Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) played a pivotal role as a neutral host for the signing of the bill to reconstitute the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC).

This event was attended by key political figures including President Ruto, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, and former Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka, among others, symbolizing a moment of unity and reconciliation for the nation.

The choice of KICC as the venue follows recent challenges, such as public protests in Nairobi's central business district and other parts of the country triggered by the rejection of the Finance Bill 2024, which the President has withdrawn. However, a major underlying issue was the demand for a properly constituted electoral body.

KICC Chief Executive Officer James Mwaura welcomed the decision to sign the bill at KICC, emphasizing the significance of the iconic Centre, which has hosted several other landmark milestones and key national occasions.

“I am glad that KICC is making history once again by hosting this significant event that will bring calm to the country,” said Mwaura, underscoring the safety and readiness of the Centre to host upcoming events.

Former Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka highlighted the importance of holding the event at KICC, emphasizing its neutrality and symbolic value as a national asset representing unity.

Among the significant events hosted at Africa’s premier Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) hotspot are the 59th African Development Bank Group Annual Meetings in May, attended by over ten African presidents. However, ongoing protests led to the postponement of major events, including the 8th African Anti-Corruption Dialogue originally scheduled for July 9, 2024. The African Union Advisory Board against Corruption has committed to rescheduling this event and will hold a virtual commemoration of African Anti-Corruption Day on July 11, 2024.

KICC's historical significance dates back to its inauguration by Kenya's first president, Jomo Kenyatta, in 1973. It has hosted numerous landmark events and remains an iconic symbol of Kenya's self-rule and ambition.