Fresh controversy has hit the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission after one of its commissioners, Francis Aduol, was linked to a Sh 39 million scandal involving retirees of the Technical University of Kenya.
The Daily Nation reported that Aduol has been drawn into questions surrounding the disappearance or irregular payment of funds meant for former staff members of the university. The matter has raised serious concerns about integrity at the highest levels of Kenya’s electoral body, which is expected to remain impartial and above reproach ahead of future polls.
Aduol, who serves as a commissioner at the IEBC, has not yet issued a public response to the allegations. The scandal centers on pension and retirement benefits that were allegedly mishandled at the Technical University of Kenya, with Sh 39 million reportedly unaccounted for or improperly disbursed.
The development comes at a sensitive time for the electoral commission, which has faced criticism in the past over issues of transparency and credibility. Political observers say any perception of wrongdoing by a sitting commissioner could further erode public confidence in the institution responsible for managing national elections.
Calls have grown for a thorough and independent investigation into the matter to establish the facts and determine whether Aduol played any role in the financial irregularities. Critics argue that individuals holding such sensitive public positions should face swift scrutiny to protect the image of key state institutions.
The Technical University of Kenya has also come under pressure to clarify the status of the retirees’ funds and ensure all affected former employees receive what is rightfully due to them.