Wafula Chebukati, born on December 22, 1961, in Kiminini, Trans Nzoia County, is a distinguished lawyer and former chairman of Kenya’s Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC). A member of the Luhya community, he pursued his education at Lenana High School before earning a law degree from the University of Nairobi in 1985. He later enhanced his expertise with a Master’s in Business Administration from JKUAT.

Chebukati built a thriving legal career spanning over 30 years, specializing in corporate, environmental, and maritime law. He founded Cootow & Associates Advocates in 2006 and served as its managing partner until 2017. His legal acumen positioned him as a respected authority in governance and dispute resolution.

 In 2007, Chebukati ventured into politics, contesting the Saboti parliamentary seat under the ODM party but lost to Eugene Wamalwa. He later distanced himself from politics and focused on his legal profession until his appointment as IEBC chairman in 2017 by President Uhuru Kenyatta.

 As IEBC chairman, Chebukati played a crucial role in overseeing Kenya’s elections, navigating political tensions and legal challenges. His tenure was marked by the historic annulment of the 2017 presidential election by the Supreme Court and the subsequent fresh polls. His leadership in electoral management remains a significant chapter in Kenya’s democratic journey.