JAMES OSWAGO
| YEAR OF BIRTH | UNKNOWN |
| GENDER | MALE |
| OCCUPATION | ADMINISTRATION |
James Oswago is a Kenyan public administrator and was among 37 individuals who applied for the position of Chairperson of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC).
Oswago, who previously served as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of IEBC, brings a wealth of experience in electoral management, governance, and public administration.
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Oswago’s career in electoral governance dates back to December 2009 when he was appointed as the Chief Electoral Officer of the Interim Independent Electoral Commission (IIEC), the precursor to the IEBC.
He played a critical role in the transition to IEBC and was instrumental in managing the 2013 General Elections.
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Before his tenure at the IEBC, Oswago had a distinguished career in legal and public administration. He has worked in procurement, electoral law, and institutional leadership.
Also Read: IEBC Selection Panel Dragged to Court Days After Shortlisting Candidates
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Education and Qualifications
Oswago holds a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) from the University of Nairobi, where he studied between 1974 and 1979.
He furthered his education in business administration, earning an MBA from Moi University in 2006-2007.
Additionally, he pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and Management from the Indiana University of Pennsylvania (1981-1983), graduating with honours.
Also Read: Anne Amadi, Charles Nyachae Shortlisted for IEBC Chairperson Job
Challenges and Controversies
Despite his extensive experience, Oswago’s tenure at the IEBC was marred by allegations of procurement irregularities.
In 2013, he was charged alongside others for abuse of office and failure to comply with procurement laws in relation to a Ksh3 billion tender.
A separate case in 2017 implicated him in a Ksh50 million procurement scandal.
As the selection process unfolds, Oswago’s candidacy will likely spark debate on accountability, experience, and leadership. Whether he can reclaim a leadership role at the IEBC remains to be seen.
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