An applicant for the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) Chairperson position on Tuesday opted out of the race during the ongoing interviews.
64-year old David Mukii Mereka surrendered from the race due to his age noting that he intended to leave the position for a younger person.
Announcing his decision to the interview panel, Mereka, who is a seasoned lawyer, urged that he be replaced by a younger or female candidate.
"I have decided to step aside so I can give room for younger generations to take charge of the IEBC commission. I hope that in respect to the gender rule, the select panel will nominate a lady to fill in the slot I have left open,” he said.
The lawyer was appearing before the select panel which has been interviewing 10 successful candidates.
Among the candidates who have so far been interviewed include former Mombasa Mayor Taib Ali Taib who said he would ensure that the law is implemented and followed when it comes to matters of election offences.
Another applicant was Wanyonyi Chebukati, the managing partner of Cootow and Associates, who assured he would put in place an efficient voting system through the use of technology.
Others included Former Law Society of Kenya representative to the Judicial Service Commission panel Florence Mwangangi, High Court advocate Tukero Ole Kina and Lucas Ole Naikuni.
The IEBC boss position fell vacant after the outgoing Commissioners handed in their resignation letters to President Uhuru Kenyatta.
