Details of the Woman who can replace Chebukati
The controversy at IEBC Continues
Recommended articles
A notice signed by Mr. Chebukati indicated that Ms. Consolata Nkatha Bucha Maina will deputize the Chairman during the polls scheduled for Thursday, October 26, 2017.
Ms. Bucha was appointed as IEBC Vice Chairperson in January and her new task as a Deputy National Returning Officer has sparked a lot of controversies.
With the election Amendment Bill passed by Jubilee legislators, Bucha will be able to announce the winner of the presidential poll in the absence of Chairman Chebukati.
ADVERTISEMENT
She was at the center of the controversy surrounding the explosive memo to CEO Ezra Chiloba which leaked on social media revealing 12 pertinent issues Chebukati raised regarding the bungled August 8 General Election.
Bucha together with four other Commissioners disowned the said memo noting that the Commission was not consulted.
“We wish to clarify that the contents of the said memo were not discussed. The Commissioners came to know of the memo through the media like everyone else.
“A quick perusal of the memo shows that the allegations are based on some report or information that has not been brought to the attention of the Commission.
Most of the issues raised are not factual and could easily mislead if taken out of context. However, the Secretariat is reviewing the issues and will prepare appropriate responses to be presented to the Commission Plenary," the letter read in part.
ADVERTISEMENT
However, it later turned out that the memo was actually authentic as Commissioner Paul Kurgat disowned the statement by Bucha and company.
Unverified Intel indicates that she is among Commissioners opposing Mr. Chebukati. Bucha is also alleged to be a Jubilee friend.
A report by the Nation quoted Makueni Machakos Senator Mutula Kilonzo as saying that Bucha 'is a pawn in Jubilee’s wider game aimed at ensuring a win for Mr. Kenyatta'.
“The changes are an obvious case of the Jubilee Party’s plot to install a friendly commissioner, who can pronounce a winner of their choice,” Mutula was quoted.
At the same time, former IEBC Commissioner Roselyn Akombe included Bucha on the list of pro-Jubilee Commissioners at the electoral body.
ADVERTISEMENT
The 57-year-old does not have an undergraduate degree but holds two diplomas from London Chamber of Commerce and Industry, one in public relations and another in business studies.
She also has a Master of Science degree in Public Relations from the University of Stirling in Scotland and diploma in public relations.
Bucha worked in Australia until last year when she returned to Kenya.
JOIN OUR PULSE COMMUNITY!
ADVERTISEMENT
Eyewitness? Submit your stories now via social or:
Email: news@pulselive.co.ke
Next story