Hassan Noor Hassan, a nominee for the position of IEBC Commissioner, was on Saturday, May 31, 2025, pressed to explain his relationship with Suna East MP Junet Mohammed during his vetting by the National Assembly’s Justice and Legal Affairs Committee (JLAC).

In response to a question from Runyenjes MP Eric Karemba, Hassan admitted that Junet is his brother-in-law.

“Mr. Chairman, I am related to Junet Mohammed I am his brother-in-law. And Mr. Chairman, as his brother-in-law, I existed long before Junet was born,” Hassan stated, drawing some amusement in the room.

Before Hassan answered, Dadaab MP Farah Maalim raised a procedural objection, arguing that it was improper for the committee to discuss the conduct of a sitting MP.

“The committee is bound by the rules of the House. You cannot discuss the conduct of a Member of Parliament without a substantive motion on the floor this is, in any case, speculation,” said Maalim.

However, Committee Chair George Murugara clarified that the nominee was not being asked to discuss Junet’s conduct but simply to respond to allegations made in affidavits.

“There is not going to be any discussion about Junet at all. But the nominee must address the claims in the affidavits stating he is related to Junet Mohammed,” said Murugara, emphasizing that the disclosure was necessary for transparency.

“When people see him out there, they should know Commissioner Hassan is Junet Mohammed’s relative,” he added.

Murugara also warned Hassan that if confirmed, he must act within the confines of the law and avoid any hint of bias.

“Keep this in mind if this committee approves you and there is ever any bias, it will be worse than bias itself,” he cautioned.

Hassan’s nomination has sparked concern, particularly among opposition leaders, who have claimed that his inclusion in the selection process was influenced by Junet Mohammed.