Dr. Nelson Makanda is a prominent figure in Kenya’s electoral landscape, currently serving as the Chairperson of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) Selection Panel. His recent appointment has placed him at the forefront of a crucial process aimed at reconstituting the IEBC, a task that has been fraught with challenges and controversies over the years.
Dr. Makanda’s journey in the field of electoral management began with a solid educational background. He pursued higher education in political science and law, which laid the foundation for his deep understanding of electoral systems and governance. His academic achievements equipped him with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the complexities of electoral management.
On January 31, 2025, Dr. Makanda was elected as the chairperson of the IEBC Selection Panel, a nine-member team tasked with recruiting new commissioners for the IEBC. This appointment came at a critical time, as the commission had been without a full set of commissioners for over two years, leading to significant delays and challenges in its operations.
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As the chairperson of the selection panel, Dr. Makanda has taken on the responsibility of ensuring that the recruitment process is conducted in an impartial, fair, and transparent manner. The panel has set a timeline of 85 days to complete the recruitment process, which includes calling for applications, shortlisting candidates, conducting interviews, and submitting the names of qualified candidates to the President for appointment.
One of the major challenges Dr. Makanda faces is maintaining the independence and integrity of the selection process. Civil society groups and other stakeholders have urged the panel to uphold transparency and avoid any political interference in the recruitment process. Dr. Makanda has assured the public that the panel is committed to conducting the recruitment exercise with utmost impartiality and fairness.
Dr. Makanda’s vision for the IEBC is to restore public confidence in the electoral process and ensure that future elections reflect the will of the people. He believes that a transparent and fair electoral process is essential for maintaining democratic gains and promoting political stability in Kenya. His leadership and dedication to the recruitment process are expected to play a crucial role in achieving these goals.
While Dr. Makanda is known for his professional achievements, he maintains a low profile in his personal life. He is described as a humble and approachable individual who is deeply committed to his work. His dedication to ensuring the integrity of the electoral process has earned him respect and admiration from various sectors of society.
Dr. Nelson Makanda’s appointment as the chairperson of the IEBC Selection Panel marks a significant milestone in Kenya’s electoral history. His extensive experience and commitment to transparency and fairness are expected to contribute to the successful reconstitution of the IEBC and the restoration of public confidence in the electoral process. As he leads the panel in its crucial task, Dr. Makanda remains a respected figure in Kenya’s political landscape, poised to make a lasting impact on the country’s electoral system.
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Dr. Nelson Makanda Age
Dr. Nelson Makanda‘s exact age is not publicly disclosed. However, his extensive career and academic achievements suggest that he is in his late 40s to early 50s. Dr. Makanda has dedicated many years to his work in electoral management and governance, making significant contributions to Kenya’s political landscape.
Dr. Nelson Makanda Wife
Dr. Nelson Makanda is married to Caroline Makanda. The couple has been involved in various community and reconciliation initiatives, particularly following the post-election violence in Kenya in 2008. Together, they have been active in training rural pastors and their wives, emphasizing the importance of leadership, pastoral care, and biblical skills. Dr. Makanda and Caroline are blessed with four children, and their partnership extends beyond their personal life into their professional and community endeavors.
Dr. Nelson Makanda Career
Dr. Nelson Makanda has had a distinguished career in electoral management and governance. He currently serves as the Chairperson of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) Selection Panel. His role involves overseeing the recruitment of new commissioners for the IEBC, ensuring that the process is conducted impartially, fairly, and transparently. Dr. Makanda’s leadership and dedication to the electoral process have been instrumental in shaping Kenya’s political landscape.
Dr. Nelson Makanda Education
Dr. Nelson Makanda holds a PhD in Biblical Studies from Africa International University. His academic background in political science and law has provided him with a deep understanding of electoral systems and governance. Dr. Makanda’s education has equipped him with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the complexities of electoral management and contribute effectively to Kenya’s democratic processes.
Dr. Nelson Makanda Contributions
Throughout his career, Dr. Nelson Makanda has made significant contributions to Kenya’s electoral process. As the Chairperson of the IEBC Selection Panel, he has been responsible for ensuring that the recruitment of new commissioners is conducted with integrity and transparency. Dr. Makanda’s work has focused on restoring public confidence in the electoral process and promoting political stability in Kenya. His dedication to fairness and impartiality has earned him respect and admiration from various sectors of society.
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Dr. Nelson Makanda Vision
Dr. Nelson Makanda‘s vision for the IEBC is to create a transparent and fair electoral process that reflects the will of the people. He believes that maintaining democratic gains and promoting political stability in Kenya are essential for the country’s development. Dr. Makanda’s leadership and commitment to the recruitment process are expected to play a crucial role in achieving these goals. His vision extends beyond the immediate task of reconstituting the IEBC, aiming to ensure that future elections in Kenya are free, fair, and credible.
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