Discover the inspiring Wafula Chebukati biography, detailing his early life, legal career, tenure as Kenya’s IEBC chairman, and impact on electoral reforms.
Wafula Wanyonyi Chebukati, the former IEBC chairman, is a name that will forever be etched in Kenya’s electoral history. As the IEBC chairperson, Mr. Chebukati was pivotal in overseeing the country’s democratic processes, especially during the hotly contested 2017 and 2022 general elections. His tenure as IEBC boss was marked by intense scrutiny, political tensions, and legal battles, including disputes involving President William Ruto and opposition leader Raila Odinga.
Despite the challenges, Chairman Wafula Chebukati upheld the principles of electoral transparency and integrity, earning both praise and criticism. But who is the man beyond the public spotlight? This Wafula Chebukati biography delves into his early life, education, career, and personal journey—including his ties to Mary Chebukati Wanyonyi, his wife, and his family.
Wafula Wanyonyi Chebukati was born in Trans Nzoia, and attended Bokoli Secondary School before proceeding to Lenana High School and later Jomo Kenyatta University. His legal acumen was sharpened at the Kenya School of Law, where he built a foundation for a stellar career in law, culminating in establishing Cootow & Associates Advocates, his successful law firm.
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Beyond the courtroom, Chebukati is a member of the Kenya Golfing Society and deeply passionate about governance and legal reforms. Political upheavals often tested his leadership at the IEBC, with key figures such as Eugene Wamalwa, Francis Wanderi, Boya Molu, Irene Masit, Abdi Guliye, and Justus Nyangaya playing significant roles as IEBC commissioners.
From his hospital stay at Nairobi Hospital to his decisions that shaped Kenya’s democracy, this article explores every aspect of ex-IEBC Chair Chebukati’s legacy. Keep reading for related articles, recent posts, and exclusive insights into the man behind Kenya’s most scrutinized elections.
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Wafula Chebukati Biography
Wafula Wanyonyi Chebukati is a prominent Kenyan lawyer and the former chairperson of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC). As the IEBC chairman, Wafula Chebukati was pivotal in overseeing Kenya’s elections, including the 2017 and 2022 general elections. His tenure was marked by both praise and controversy, particularly regarding electoral integrity and political disputes.
Early Life and Background
Wafula Chebukati was born and raised in Trans Nzoia County, Kenya. Before attending Lenana High School for his advanced studies, he attended Bokoli Secondary School for his early education. He later joined the University of Nairobi, pursuing a law degree before enrolling at the Kenya School of Law for his professional training.
Wafula Chebukati Age
As of 2025, Wafula Chebukati is in his early 60s. His exact date of birth is not widely publicized, but his long and impactful career in law and public service spans several decades.
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Wafula Chebukati Career
Wafula Chebukati began his career as a legal practitioner and founded Cootow & Associates Advocates, a reputable law firm specializing in commercial and constitutional law. He later ventured into public service and was appointed as the IEBC chair in 2017 by then-President Uhuru Kenyatta, succeeding Ahmed Issack Hassan.
During his tenure as IEBC chairman, Wafula Chebukati oversaw two highly contested elections. The 2017 elections were annulled by the Supreme Court following a petition by opposition leader Raila Odinga, leading to a repeat election. In 2022, he presided over another tense election, which saw President William Ruto declared the winner amid opposition disputes.
As the IEBC chairperson, Wafula Chebukati worked closely with key IEBC officials, including commissioners like Abdi Guliye, Boya Molu, and Irene Masit. His leadership was both lauded and criticized, with some perceiving him as a champion of democracy while others accused him of bias.
Wafula Chebukati Children
Wafula Chebukati is a family man and has children, including Emmanuel Chebukati. His wife, Mary Chebukati Wanyonyi, has also been involved in public service, having held significant roles in government institutions.
Wafula Chebukati Net Worth
As a former IEBC boss and a seasoned lawyer, Wafula Chebukati’s net worth is estimated to be in the millions. His wealth stems from his legal practice, tenure at IEBC, and various business engagements. Additionally, he has been associated with elite social organizations like the Kenya Golfing Society.
Wafula Chebukati Illness
There have been rumors regarding Wafula Chebukati’s health. He has, however, been spotted at Nairobi Hospital on different occasions, raising speculation about his medical condition.
In April 2024, Chebukati was diagnosed with a tumor, which led him to seek treatment in Germany. Despite undergoing surgeries, the tumor recurred in December 2024. By February 12, 2025, his health had deteriorated, and he was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at Nairobi Hospital.
Wafula Chebukati Death Cause
Wafula Chebukati passed away on February 20, 2025, while undergoing treatment at a Nairobi hospital. The exact cause of his death has not been officially disclosed, as the family was yet to establish it at the time of reporting.
Conclusion: Wafula Chebukati Biography
Wafula Chebukati biography highlights his journey from a legal expert to one of Kenya’s most influential electoral figures. As the IEBC chair, Wafula Chebukati played a crucial role in shaping Kenya’s democratic process. His leadership, particularly in the 2017 and 2022 elections, placed him at the center of Kenya’s political landscape. Whether praised or criticized, Mr. Chebukati’s legacy in Kenya’s electoral history remains significant.
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