How Cyber Café Youth Convinced Me to Apply for IEBC Job – Ethekon

Erastus Ethekon, the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) chair nominee, has revealed a touching backstory behind his decision to vie for one of Kenya’s most scrutinized and demanding public roles.

Appearing before the National Assembly’s Justice and Legal Affairs Committee on Saturday, Ethekon said he had initially been reluctant to apply due to the negativity and pressure surrounding the position. The decisive moment, he said, came from an unexpected corner: three young people at a cyber café in South Africa.

“At first, I was reluctant even to apply for this job, given the negativity and all these things around this position,” he told MPs during his vetting.

Ethekon explained that he frequented the cyber café to make photocopies and complete paperwork, and it was here that Peter, Purity, and Kizito — three youth he described as ordinary citizens — urged him to take the leap.

“They said I have what it takes to lead this institution. They convinced me to apply for both chair and commissioner positions,” he said. “They actually went and submitted the documents for both positions. They even sent me a screenshot showing the submission.”

He was quick to clarify that while the trio submitted the documents, he had personally prepared and signed them. “I bound everything and asked them to submit once it was in order,” he added, saying he still has a copy of the application.

Ethekon also dismissed claims that his application was driven by political interest or external pressure. “I just want Kenyans to know that ordinary citizens also care, and they are the ones who encouraged me.”

He emphasized that his path to the nomination followed all legal procedures. “The interviews were televised, I gave my reasons, and the rest of the process followed the law.”

The IEBC chair position is one of Kenya’s most critical and high-risk public service roles, involving the stewardship of elections and safeguarding of democratic processes. Ethekon’s account highlights how even in an era of political skepticism, civic engagement from everyday youth can influence the future of national leadership.

In other news:Two Suspected Criminals Arrested in Kiambu Over Embakasi and Kikuyu Robberies

How Cyber Café Youth Convinced Me to Apply for IEBC Job – Ethekon