President William Ruto has awarded Mary Chebukati, the widow of former IEBC Chairperson Wafula Chebukati, with a top state commendation during this year’s honours ceremony. The event, held to recognise exemplary service to the nation, celebrated dozens of Kenyans drawn from various sectors.
Mary Chebukati was among 82 recipients conferred with the Chief of the Order of the Burning Spear (C.B.S.), one of the country’s highest civilian honours. Others in the category included Nominated Senator Veronica Maina and Kimilili MP Didmus Barasa, alongside 79 additional awardees recognised for their contributions to national development.
In the Elder of the Burning Spear (E.B.S.) category, 74 Kenyans were honoured for their notable achievements and service. The list featured prominent individuals such as Mwai Daniel, Justice Kanyi Kimondo, and Brigadier Adan Hassan, among others who have made significant impact in their fields.
President Ruto also decorated 235 citizens with the Moran of the Order of the Burning Spear (M.B.S.), acknowledging their distinguished service across public service, academia, the creative economy, security and other national sectors. The large number of recipients reflected the government’s commitment to celebrating excellence at all levels of society.
“Honored and deeply humbled to receive the Head of State Commendatio from H.E. President William Samoei Ruto. Grateful beyond words for this recognition. Truly, God works miracles,” Musician Iyanii commented on the good gesture from the head of State.
The awards form part of the national tradition of recognising outstanding contributions to Kenya’s progress, unity and public life. This year’s honours come at a time of heightened public interest in state commendations, particularly following the recognition of Mary Chebukati, whose late husband played a defining role in the country’s electoral history.