Kenya’s Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has rejected assertions by political figures suggesting they will interfere with or alter the results of the 2027 General Election.
A declaration issued by IEBC Chairperson Erastus Ethekon on May 26 characterized these statements as detrimental to the nation’s democratic foundations.
Such declarations, which have generated significant unease in the electoral sphere, present a genuine threat of misshaping public understanding of the country’s democratic framework. The commission deems these statements unacceptable, irresponsible, and wholly unfounded,” the declaration stated.
The commission indicated that these comments jeopardize the public’s accurate view of the democratic system and erode trust in the credibility of future elections, while also seeking to create anxiety and misinform citizens about the nation’s electoral procedures.
The electoral body also dismissed assertions that it is unduly influenced by external forces, describing these accusations as false and disrespectful to the commission’s constitutional responsibilities.
The commission underscored its intention to involve appropriate authorities in taking action against persons making declarations intended to diminish confidence in the electoral system.
The commission will coordinate with concerned entities for necessary measures. It is time for political figures to cease deceiving the public about potential electoral manipulation and instead recognize the preparations underway for the 2027 General Election,” the declaration noted.
The declaration follows contentious statements made by Kakamega Deputy Governor Ayub Savula, who indicated his organization would impact the 2027 General Election through its budgetary responsibilities and support for the IEBC.
Savula, who is managing Ruto’s re-election efforts in Western Kenya, subsequently clarified his comments, asserting they were misunderstood and intended to demonstrate political faith in the current government prior to the upcoming electoral contest.
The comments, delivered at a delegates’ gathering in Lugari, also faced backlash when Hamisi MP Charles Gimose reportedly instructed party representatives to guarantee Ruto’s electoral victory.
The controversy led Deputy President Kithure Kindiki to publicly disassociate the Kenya Kwanza administration from any implication of electoral interference before the 2027 General Election.
Addressing crowds in Kisii on May 25 while reviewing progress on government initiatives, Kindiki stated that Ruto’s administration supports democracy, legal governance, and unrestricted political competition.
The commission clarified that the Electoral Code of Conduct is not currently in effect since no election has been formally announced, referencing the Supreme Court ruling from the Sabina Chege case in 2022.
The electoral body further observed that no official announcement concerning the 2027 General Election has been made to warrant the premature and imprudent political declarations concerning electoral manipulation and ballot tampering.
The commission emphasized that the constitutional authority to organize and oversee elections belongs exclusively to IEBC as stipulated in Article 88 of the Constitution and cannot be assumed by any political entity or institution.