Independent Bodies
These are institutions established by the Constitution of Kenya 2010 to operate independently from the three arms of government, ensuring accountability, transparency, and protection of public interest.
A. Constitutional Commissions
Established under Chapter 15 of the Constitution (Articles 248–254).
Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC)
Manages elections, voter registration, and constituency boundaries.
Learn more →Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC)
Fights corruption and promotes integrity in public service.
Learn more →Commission on Revenue Allocation (CRA)
Advises on equitable sharing of revenue between national and county governments.
Learn more →Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC)
Sets and reviews remuneration for all public officers.
Learn more →Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR)
Promotes and protects human rights in Kenya.
Learn more →National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC)
Promotes gender equality and inclusion for marginalized groups.
Learn more →Commission on Administrative Justice (CAJ)
Addresses complaints of maladministration and abuse of power.
Learn more →Judicial Service Commission (JSC)
Handles appointments, promotions, and discipline in the Judiciary.
Learn more →B. Independent Offices
These are headed by a single office holder and enjoy the same level of constitutional independence.
Office of the Controller of Budget
Approves withdrawals from public funds and oversees budget implementation.
Learn more →C. Constitutional Bodies (Broader Term)
"Constitutional Bodies" is a broad umbrella term that includes both Chapter 15 commissions/offices and other institutions created by the Constitution to perform specific sovereign functions.
Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP)
Prosecutes criminal cases on behalf of the State.
Learn more →Judicial Service Commission (JSC)
Manages appointments, promotions, and discipline in the Judiciary.
Learn more →Why are they important?
These bodies serve as vital checks and balances, protecting the Constitution, fighting corruption, ensuring fair elections, and safeguarding public resources — often described as aquasi-fourth arm of government.