Anne Amadi emerges top choice for IEBC chair- Survey

By Newsflash Writer

Anne Amadi has emerged as the leading candidate for the position of Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) Chairperson, according to new data from TIFA Research.

The survey indicates Amadi is preferred by 41% of respondents, placing her well ahead of her competitors.

Charles Nyachae ranks second with 23% support, followed by Erastus Ethekon at 15%, and Abdulqadir Ramadhan at 12%. Amadi’s commanding lead suggests widespread public confidence in her suitability to lead the electoral commission.

Despite this clear preference, the TIFA poll also reveals considerable doubt about the credibility of the ongoing vetting process for the IEBC chair and commissioners. A majority of respondents—55%—said they are “not confident” in the process. Only 39% expressed some degree of confidence—either “very” or “somewhat”—while 6% were unsure or lacked sufficient information to comment.

Confidence gap undermines candidate preferences

The findings point to a critical disconnect: while Kenyans are invested in who leads the IEBC, they remain deeply skeptical about how those leaders are selected. This sentiment reflects a long-standing concern about transparency, fairness, and political interference in the electoral system.

Amadi’s popularity may stem from her experience and credibility within the legal and judicial sectors. Though the poll does not provide reasons behind the preferences, Amadi’s prominence in public service appears to have bolstered trust in her ability to lead electoral reforms.

Nyachae, who received 23% support, is a respected figure known for chairing the Commission for the Implementation of the Constitution (CIC). His past public service gives him a strong profile, but it still falls short of Amadi’s lead.

Ethekon and Ramadhan, while less favored, still reflect a level of public recognition. With 15% and 12% support respectively, both have room to grow their reputations, though the current figures suggest they face an uphill task if public perception plays a role in the appointment.

The broader concern, however, lies in the 55% of Kenyans who lack confidence in the vetting process. This level of distrust points to systemic challenges that continue to plague the IEBC, including past accusations of partisanship, manipulation, and lack of accountability.

These concerns are particularly relevant as Kenya prepares for the 2027 general elections, where public trust in electoral institutions will be critical.

The survey suggests that for the IEBC to regain legitimacy, reforming the selection and vetting process must be a priority. Kenyans appear to want more than just qualified candidates—they want a credible and independent process to choose them.