The Greek philosopher Aristotle once said, “you will never do anything in this world without courage because it is the greatest quality of the mind next to honor.” Such was the case of the outgoing Chairman Wafula Chebukati in his conduct of the 9th August 2022 General Election. Amidst threats to his life, intimidation and harassment, Chebukati led a dedicated team that conducted one of the most peaceful election in the history of Kenya.
Thus, it came as no surprise during the 59th Jamhuri Day celebrations last year, when President William Ruto awarded State Commendations to Chairman, Commissioners and some staff in recognition of their work.
"In recognition of distinguished and outstanding services rendered to the nation in various capacities and responsibilities, I, William Samoei Ruto, President of the Republic of Kenya and Commander-in-Chief of the Defence Forces, confer Awards and Honours to the following persons…," the gazette notice dated December 12 read in part.
The Chairman was awarded with the Elder of the Order of the Golden Heart (EGH), the second highest honour awarded by the Kenyan government after that of the Chief of the Order of the Golden Heart (CGH). He was among 13 individuals in the category. Commissioners Prof. Abdi Guliye and Boya Molu were awarded the Elder of the Order of the Burning Spear (EBS) in the second class category that had 35 other Kenyans.
In doing their task, the Chairman and Commissioners worked closely with the Secretariat, whom they termed as true heroes. Some Commission staff were also honoured including Commission Secretary and CEO Marjan Hussein Marjan, who was feted with the Moran of the Order of the Burning Spear (MBS) medal. Chrispine Owiye (Director Legal Services), Gideon Balang (Dir.ectorate of Voter Registration and Operation - DVREO) and Daniel Musyoka (posthumous) were awarded Order of the Grand Warrior; while Ibrahim Osman Hassan (Director Finance), Michael Ouma (Director ICT), Dickson Kwanusu (Personal Assistant to the Chairman), Abdi Abdidahir Maalim (DVREO) were honoured with the Head of State’s Commendation (Civilian-Division).
The Gazette Notice also included other Kenyans honoured in different categories in recognition of distinguished and outstanding services rendered to the nation in various capacities and responsibilities.