The family of former Independent and Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) Chair Wafula Chebukati has revealed what caused his death.
According to the family spokesperson Eric Nyongesa, Chebukati suffered a cardiac arrest that resulted in his death.
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Additionally, they said that a postmortem will be conducted to ascertain what resulted in the cardiac arrest.
The former IEBC will be laid to rest on March 8 at his farm in Kitale.
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Before he suffered a cardiac arrest his family says he was diagnosed with brain cancer and underwent two surgeries prior his death.
Family of Chebukati Reveals Cause of His Death
The family spokesperson announced that the former IEBC Chairperson was diagnosed with brain cancer in April 2023.
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Following this diagnosis, he was taken to Germany, where he underwent surgery to remove the tumor.
However, in April 2024, it was discovered that the tumor had returned, prompting him to return to Germany for a second surgery to remove it.
Also Read: Mary Wanyonyi: Meet Chebukati’s Wife That Ruto Appointed After Being Sworn-in
Chebukati would again go back to hospital in December 2024, after a check-up showed that the tumor had recurred.
He was hospitalized again on February 12, admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), and succumbed to cardiac arrest on February 20.
At the same time, the family spokesperson dismissed reports that Chebukati was declared clinically dead prior his death.
Political Leaders Mourn Former IEBC Chairperson
Prominent leaders have expressed their condolences following the passing of former IEBC Chairperson Wafula Chebukati, with President William Ruto leading the tributes.
President Ruto, reflecting on Chebukati’s six-year term before his retirement in shared that he received the news of his passing with deep sorrow.
“I have received the news of the passing of former Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission Chairperson Wafula Chebukati with profound sorrow.
Chebukati was a principled and diligent leader who served the nation with integrity. His death is a great loss to our country,” said Ruto.
Also Read: Former IEBC Chair Wafula Chebukati is Dead
Former President Uhuru Kenyatta expressed his deep sadness over the passing of Wafula Chebukati, saying,
“I am deeply saddened by the news of Wafula Chebukati’s passing.
As the former Chairman of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), he played a significant role in shaping our nation’s electoral framework, often overcoming complex challenges with resilience. My thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time.
May they find comfort and strength in their cherished memories of him.”
Speaker Moses Wetang’ula also shared his condolences, stating,
“It is with great sorrow that I extend my deepest condolences on the passing of my esteemed friend, Wafula Chebukati.
He was a distinguished jurist, a staunch defender of the rule of law, and a committed public servant whose legacy will endure for generations.
As a respected advocate, Chebukati exemplified integrity and professionalism within the legal field. During his time as Chairman of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission, he executed his duties with exceptional courage, constitutional fidelity, and an unwavering commitment to justice.”
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