The family of former Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) chairperson Wafula Chebukati, who died on Thursday February 20 aged 63 , has requested privacy as they deliberate on whether to conduct a post-mortem to determine cause of death.
Family spokesperson Eric Nyongesa told the press on Friday that a decision would be made after a family meeting scheduled for later in the day.
"We will issue a formal communication, hopefully by tomorrow, after the family has had a meeting. For now, we ask for peace and patience as we finalise arrangements," he said.
Mr Nyongesa, who was accompanied by Chebukati’s elder son Jonathan Chebukati, last-born son Emmanuel Chebukati, and brother-in-law Kutsi, did not disclose further details on the circumstances surrounding his death.
However, he confirmed that the former IEBC chairman had been unwell and passed away at Nairobi Hospital at around 11pm on Thursday.
"The family is here. The father came from Kitale last night, and he is also here. We want to allow him to rest before we hold our meeting this evening," Mr Nyongesa added.
The family is expected to make an official announcement regarding funeral arrangements and the post-mortem decision after their discussions.
Family and friends of former IEBC chairman Wafula Chebukati at Lee Funeral Home on February 21, 2025.
Photo credit: Wilfred Nyangaresi | Nation Media Group
Mr Chebukati completed his six-year tenure as the head of the Electoral Commission before retiring in January 2023.
He oversaw Kenya’s 2017 and 2022 elections, and his death has sparked widespread reactions, with leaders and citizens expressing their condolences, led by President William Ruto.
"I am deeply saddened by the passing of former Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission Chairperson Wafula Chebukati. He was a diligent and principled leader who upheld integrity in his service to the nation. His demise is a great loss to our country.
"Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends during this difficult time. May he rest in peace," Dr Ruto stated.
