Prof. Adams Oloo defends IEBC selection role, cites resignation from Ruto’s advisory team

Prof. Oloo cited his two appointments: one on December 20, 2024, as an advisor and member of the President’s Council of Economic Advisors.

His subsequent nomination was by the Public Service Commission (PSC) to the selection panel for the recruitment of nominees for appointment of the chairperson and members of the IEBC.

Since then, he says, he has received numerous petitions from a section of the political class, calling for his resignation from one of the appointment over potential conflict of interest.

“It is against this background that I have decided to set the record straight.”

In a letter dated February 11, 2025 Prof. Oloo noted that he consulted the head of state after his name was forwarded for official gazettement as part of the IEBC selection panel-and resigned as his advisor.

“That resignation is contained in a letter dated January 24, 2025,” Oloo said in his statement.

In his resignation letter, Oloo says he proferred his quest to ‘getting the IEBC right’- a move he argues, is critical for the country’s democracy.

“That remains my position as I and my fellow panelists continue to undertake this noble task that with the support of all Kenyans can lead to the country having a credible electoral body,” he concluded.

Some of the petitioners, including former Law Society of Kenya Chief Executive Apollo Mboya, argue that Oloo was ineligible to sit on the panel since he serves as President William Ruto’s advisor.

He added that the matter be settled before February 15, 2025 when applications for the commissioners' positions will expire.