The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) candidate Ambassador Lucy Jebet Chelimo on Friday, July 16 proposed improvements on academic qualifications of politicians vying for political seats.
When asked by panelist Mr. Morris Kimuli whether she would develop a framework to limit the number of politicians vying for various positions, Chelimo argued she would not limit the number since they have the right to do so.
However, she noted she would improve the qualifications to manage the situation.
“I would not suggest that we have a formula that reduces the number. Perhaps you can improve the qualifications but not the number” Chelimo stated.
Chelimo noted it would be desirable for the country to have a highly qualified leaders right from MCAs to the presidency level.
The former ambassador to Zimbabwe defended her 15 years experience and promised to make the commission proud if given a chance.
Recently, there has been a passionate academic qualifications debate among politicians with some proposing reductions while others insist on the current provisions.
Elgeyo Marakwet Senator Kipchumba Murkomen sponsored a bill seeking to amend Section 22 of the Elections Act to eliminate the requirement of an academic degree for those seeking to run for MPs and MCAs.
Senator Murkomen argued the academic qualifications are not supposed to be imposed as basic requirements.
IEBC also announced that the requirements will be compulsory for all individuals planning to vie for various political positions.
