Celebration in Turkana as Ruto picks Erastus Ethekon to lead IEBC
There was celebration in Turkana County after President William Ruto nominated Mr Erastus Ethekon as the chairman of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC).
Mr Paul Jalinga, a resident of Kakuma who worked with Mr Ethekon during his tenure as the first county attorney, said the nomination is a testimony that the President has faith in all Kenyans regardless of the regions or communities they come from.
“It is out of the love and trust that the President has for the Turkana community that he has nominated one of us to sit on the decision making table. It is now up to us as residents to remain united and support his government to deliver on the development agenda,” said Mr Jalinga.
He described the nominee as a mentor, motivator, visionary and courageous who has mentored his juniors to rise to top leadership positions including the current District Attorney, Ms Ruth Emanikor.
Mr Stanley Loter, a resident of Turkana East Constituency, said these were incredible moments for Turkana as a community. “Mr Ethekon is such an upright and well organised gentleman and Kenya will be proud to have him at the helm of IEBC affairs.”
Youth in Turkana led by Thomas Kiyonga said the nomination of Erastus Ethekon, a native of Morulem village, was more than a personal milestone; it’s a symbol of changing tides, noting that Mr Ethekon, celebrated for his stellar academic record, professional expertise and tireless dedication, now stands as a beacon of hope for a region long sidelined by history.
Mr Kiyonga said that for decades, the Turkana community dared not dream of such opportunities and that securing even a single appointment in a sea of hundreds felt like a miracle.
“Under President William Ruto’s administration, the narrative is changing. Turkana leaders are now ascending to pivotal roles in government, signaling a bold departure from the past and a promise of equitable representation. Mr Ethekon’s nomination transcends individual achievement. It ignites hope not just for Turkana but for all pastoralist communities historically marginalized by systemic inequities,” he said.
He said the youth were now inspired by the nomination that in Kenya today, one’s place of birth no longer determines one’s destiny.
“We are challenged that one’s tribe no longer stops one from being ambitious. Mr Ethekon’s rise from the arid plains of Turkana to the halls of national governance proves that talent, when nurtured, can break down even the deepest barriers,” said Mr Kiyonga.
Mr Henry Lotiir, a young lawyer, added that it was a defining moment that instilled optimism and hope for greatness in every pastoralist child and that even the sky was not the limit.
Turkana Governor Jeremiah Lomorukai said Mr Ethekon was a distinguished legal expert and the first Turkana County Attorney who had demonstrated exceptional leadership, integrity and dedication to public service.
“We sincerely thank President William Ruto for recognising Ethekon’s abilities and entrusting him with this noble responsibility to lead Kenya’s electoral body. We are confident that his vast experience will contribute to a transparent, fair and credible electoral process in our country,” said Mr Lomorukai.
He said he believed his nomination would be approved by Parliament.
Turkana South MP Dr John Ariko said as a pastoralist leader, particularly from Turkana, the nomination came at a time when he didn’t expect a small community like Turkana to lead Kenya’s electoral process.
His Loima Constituency counterpart, Dr Protus Akujah, said although it was a historic moment for Turkana, he believed Mr Ethekon would deliver.
Some residents had already expressed hope that one of their own would be the next IEBC chairperson as soon as they heard that President Ruto had received the report on the recruitment of candidates for the positions of chairperson and members of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) from the IEBC selection panel at State House, Nairobi.
Mr Erastus Ethekon, a 48-year-old lawyer, is among the 11 candidates interviewed for the position of chairman.
They said that historically the leadership of the IEBC has not reflected the full diversity of the nation and that the nomination of Mr Ethekon, who hails from Turkana, considered one of the country’s minority communities, would send a strong message of inclusion and equality.
Mr Jonathan Lokwawi, a resident, said that with the appointment of Kenya’s next IEBC chairperson now in its final stages, the President should seize this opportunity as part of his calculated moves to redress historical injustices and promote the participation of all communities in shaping Kenya’s democratic future.
“As a community, we trust that the President, who is expected in the county on a development tour, will give this matter his utmost consideration and act in the best interest of the country’s unity, justice and democratic integrity,” said Mr Lokwawi.
Another resident, Mr Philip Aemun, said Mr Ethekon is a highly qualified professional whose experience, integrity and deep understanding of Kenya’s electoral processes make him an ideal candidate for this crucial role.
Mr Aemun said his track record demonstrated a commitment to fairness, transparency and leadership – qualities essential to the credibility and effectiveness of the IEBC.
“In addition, Mr Ethekon comes from an area that was once marginalised but is benefiting from devolution, it is time for the minority to be at the decision-making table,” he said.
He noted that marginalised communities are under-represented in senior positions, and that it would be great for their countries to have candidates from marginalised communities recognised at the highest levels of national leadership.
During the interview, Mr Ethekon promised to prioritise the rights of marginalised communities in the electoral process if appointed to lead the commission.
He stressed the need for a rights-based approach to addressing electoral barriers, ensuring that every stage – from voter registration to vote counting – takes into account the unique struggles of marginalised groups.
“I will ensure that a rights-based approach is applied to voter registration, voter education and polling. This will help to address the specific needs of these communities,” Ethekon added.
He also proposed the introduction of mobile voter registration units to reach remote areas with poor infrastructure and limited access to electoral services.
Shows
See AllAM Live
AM Live is NTV's morning current affairs show that sets the agenda for the day with insightful panels every weekday.
Business Redefined
Business Redefined is Kenya’s premier thought leadership platform for unpacking matters regarding economic and finance policy as well demystifying complex developments in the region’s capital markets.
Comedies
A collection of our premium content. Diam curabitur vehicula A collection of our premium content. Diam curabitur vehicula
Creatives & Coins Podcast
A podcast that dives deep into the vibrant and rapidly evolving digital creative economy in Kenya. This show explores the lives, challenges, and triumphs of individuals who are successfully navigating the gig and creative economies. From digital artists and content creators to freelance writers and tech entrepreneurs, we spotlight the voices that are shaping the future of work in Kenya.
Documentaries
A collection of our premium content. Diam curabitur vehicula A collection of our premium content. Diam curabitur vehicula
Entertainment
A collection of our premium content. Diam curabitur vehicula A collection of our premium content. Diam curabitur vehicula
Fixing The Nation
Fixing the Nation is a bold and groundbreaking show that will take an unflinching look at challenges facing the Kenyan society and the solutions that can move us forward. It is anchored by respected journalists Eric Lattif, Janet Mbugua, and Mariam Bishar. Podcast created by: Nation FM
Fixing the Nation
Fixing the Nation is a bold and groundbreaking show that will take an unflinching look at challenges facing the Kenyan society and the solutions that can move us forward. It is anchored by respected journalists Eric Lattif, Janet Mbugua, and Mariam Bishar
Full Episodes
A collection of our premium content. Diam curabitur vehicula A collection of our premium content. Diam curabitur vehicula
Gumzo La Sato
Gumzo La Sato is a live social issues show that aims to create awareness about issues affecting the larger society. The discussions range from Parenting, Marital bliss and struggles, Oppression, violence, and all matters of the Heart.
Health Diary
Health Diary is a weekly show that highlights different types of diseases/conditions and seeks ways to prevent, treat/manage them. The show debunks this through real life stories and also feature specialists in different fields, to offer medical advice on the same.
Letter To My Younger Self
Letter To My Younger Self is a podcast where guests get to write a letter to their younger self, from which Maxine formulates questions to ask them during the hour-long show.
Nation Reports
Nation Reports is a weekly podcast offers an opportunity for listeners to interact with various reporters and journey with them as they unravel the biggest most emotive stories.
Noma
NOMA is a gripping family drama that delves into the complexities of sibling rivalry, parental expectations, and the struggle for identity within a powerful business family In the heart of Nairobi, the Mwamba family stands as a beacon of success, with a thriving business empire built by the patriarch, MZEE AMAON MWAMBA. However, beneath the surface, the family is fractured by jealousy, unspoken desires, and the weight of expectations.
One Health Lens Podcast
Discussing health matters and human stories from Kenya and across Africa. We talk big picture from people to policy, ecosystems, and everything in between. Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/onehealthlens
Paradise Lost
Paradise Lost peeks through the story of Louis Otieno, the times, and everything in between.
Primetime
A collection of our premium content. Diam curabitur vehicula A collection of our premium content. Diam curabitur vehicula
Speaking of GEN Z
Speaking of Gen Z brings you entertaining but meaningful conversations about a generation that is trying to navigate through adulthood. Join hosts Michelle, Jackie and Esther as they unravel all things Gen Z.
Sport On
Sport-On is a 30-minute sports magazine show on NTV and 3 hours on NATION FM. The show seeks to give the sports “fanatics” and “funatics” comprehensive and in-depth coverage of sports both locally and internationally.
Tech-over
The extent of technological growth is beyond mere acknowledgment; it has seamlessly integrated into our daily existence. A few years ago, the notion of paying electricity bills through mobile money or recharging with 'tokens' in Kenya seemed inconceivable. Online product sales were considered distant, and artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping various facets of our lives. Amidst these technological leaps, those with a solid understanding of tech can navigate challenges, seize opportunities, and build a sustainable livelihood. Tech over Show aims to be the platform facilitating discussions among thought leaders, innovators, tech companies, and the government, addressing challenges and opportunities in Kenya's thriving tech industry.
Thamani
Thamani is a business show which is dedicated to emerging issues regarding micro, small and medium size businesses.
The Politalk podcast
This is The Politalk podcast. Here we look into the ins and outs of everything Kenyan politics. We pull no punches and have no reason to sugarcoat anything that matters to Kenyans.
The Trend
A two-hour-long live show that airs on Fridays. The show focuses on what is current in the entertainment industry, controversial and popular across all media platforms targeting those aged between 25 and 35 years.
The trend podcast
The trend podcast highlights and captures the best of banter from #TTTT segment that airs every Friday on NTV. It's the TTTT EXTRA
The Wicked Edition
The Wicked Edition with Dr. King’ori seeks to address serious issues through humour and relatable wit. It is a two-part half hour show filmed in front of a live audience
Trending
A collection of our premium content. Diam curabitur vehicula A collection of our premium content. Diam curabitur vehicula
Twende
Twende is a travel show that highlights beautiful, unique, diverse locations, people, and cultures. The show offers fresh perspectives on familiar locations and memorable experiences in new ones.
Unscripted
This Saturday evening lifestyle show lets viewers share their stories and life experiences as openly & honestly for the purpose of shifting the culture of silence.
VIP Access
VIP ACCESS is Anyiko Owoko’s YouTube and podcast show on Music and Culture dedicated to promoting Africa’s most promising talent and creatives. This podcast grants you VIP access into timeless interviews while providing a platform for rising as well as established artists across the continent. Since launching in 2018, Anyiko has interviewed over 70 African music stars.
WADR
This weekly news show aims to have all sides of debate but not be constrained by it, listen to main voices in the contest but not allow them to hold the viewers hostage, entertain debate but allow push back with all due respect.
When death do us part
In this podcast, three widowers openly speak about the process of grief, how they found themselves exposed to the emotional turmoil of losing their wives, and how society still does not know how to deal with them.
Your World
Your World is a health, wellness and variety show. It provides a platform for audiences and experts to share their experiences on how to improve or manage health issues, across Kenya and the Africa region.