The death of former Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) chairperson Wafula Chebukati has sparked mixed reactions across the country, with some Kenyans openly celebrating his demise. The deep-seated resentment towards the controversial electoral boss was evident during a funeral in Webuye East, Bungoma County, on Thursday, February 20, where Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K) leader Eugene Wamalwa faced backlash from mourners.
While addressing the gathering, Wamalwa eulogized Chebukati as a great leader, a remark that was met with outright rejection from the crowd. Mourners loudly interjected, shouting, “Acha akufe, akufe kabisa!” (Let him die, let him die completely!), reflecting lingering anger over the 2022 general elections, which many believe were mismanaged under Chebukati’s leadership.
Wamalwa, taken aback by the reaction, attempted to calm the mourners. “Pole sana. Kando na haya matanga ya hapa ya Wendy, leo pia tumempoteza ndugu yetu Wafula Chebukati. Mumesema akufe…,” he said, acknowledging the hostile sentiments while urging Kenyans to push for a more credible IEBC in the future.
Chebukati Family Pleads for Respect
In response to the growing hostility, Chebukati’s family has pleaded with Kenyans to cease the online attacks and allow them space to grieve. In a viral video, his son lamented the insensitivity surrounding his father’s death.
“What is hurting us as a family is that while we are mourning, Kenyans are making jokes about it. Kindly stop. It is not the right thing to do. Our father did his job with integrity and did not steal anyone’s money. He made his decisions out of respect for the country,” he stated.
Calls for Unity and Reflection
Some Kisumu residents, speaking to The Kenyan Tabloid, called for an end to the blame game, urging Kenyans to support the grieving family.
“This is not the time for wrangles over who was right or wrong. Chebukati was a leader chosen by our elected representatives and embraced by many Kenyans. What happened is in the past; we should now come together and condole with his family,” said one resident.
However, others maintained that Chebukati’s tenure was marked by controversial decisions that did not sit well with Kenyans. They insisted that his legacy should be scrutinized, even in death, while also supporting his family during this difficult time.
Leaders Send Condolences
Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga was among key political figures who sent messages of condolence. In his statement, Odinga extended his sympathies to Chebukati’s widow, Mary Chebukati, and their children.
“To the family of Mr. Wafula Chebukati, who passed on earlier today, I send my sincere condolences and sympathies for the loss of a son, father, husband, and breadwinner,” Odinga said.
Chebukati’s Death and Burial Plans
The former IEBC chair died on Thursday, February 20, at a Nairobi hospital, where he had been in intensive care for a week. His body is currently preserved at Lee Funeral Home as burial arrangements continue.
As emotions continue to run high, Chebukati’s passing has reignited debates over his role in Kenya’s electoral history, with some mourning him as a statesman while others see his death as justice served.
