The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) in Kenya has denied allegations of foreign voter registration and missing biometric kits. In a statement on September 27, the commission, led by Erastus Edung Ethekon, responded to claims raised by a local media outlet. The IEBC warned of legal action against anyone spreading false information. The commission emphasized that no credible evidence has been submitted to support allegations of illegality and malpractice.
The IEBC stated that allegations of foreigners registering as voters and of illegal voter transfers remain unverified. The commission urged anyone with proof of wrongdoing to come forward, promising to investigate and refer credible cases for prosecution. The IEBC also clarified its role, stating that it does not issue national identity cards or passports, as its mandate under Article 88 of the constitution covers only the registration of citizens who already hold valid identification.
According to the IEBC, its partnerships with civil society groups, religious organizations, universities, and community leaders have helped register more than 2.6 million new voters in the past year. The commission reported that it has been conducting a Continuous Voter Registration drive across the country's 290 constituencies. This effort is part of its wider push to counter misinformation ahead of the 2027 General Election.
The IEBC also addressed concerns about the security of its registration equipment. The commission stated that no Kenya Integrated Elections Management System kit has gone missing or turned up in an unauthorized location, including abroad. The machines are kept under the supervision of gazetted officers and returned to IEBC warehouses once registration ends in an area.
In a move to expand voter registration, the IEBC plans to widen diaspora voter registration from 12 countries in the 2022 election to 26 countries ahead of the 2027 vote. This will be done once the commission launches the second phase of its enhanced registration program. The IEBC is working to ensure that more Kenyans can participate in the electoral process.
The IEBC chair, Erastus Edung Ethekon, emphasized the commission's commitment to transparency and accountability. He encouraged Kenyans to verify the accuracy of information they receive about the electoral process. The commission's efforts aim to ensure the integrity of the voter registration process and build trust among Kenyans.
The IEBC's denial of allegations and clarification of its role come as Kenya prepares for the 2027 General Election. The commission's efforts to register new voters and expand diaspora voter registration are crucial in ensuring that all eligible Kenyans can participate in the electoral process. The IEBC's warning of legal action against those spreading false information underscores its commitment to protecting the integrity of the electoral process.
Key points
- The IEBC has registered over 2.6 million new voters in the past year through partnerships with civil society groups and other organizations.
