The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) in Kenya is intensifying its preparations to ensure a secure and credible 2027 General Election. IEBC Chairperson Erastus Ethekon emphasized the Commission's commitment to independence, openness, and faithful discharge of its mandate during an Election Security Arrangement Programme (ESAP) Mombasa cluster stakeholder engagement. The programme aims to bring together various stakeholders, including the National Police Service, investigative and prosecutorial institutions, and oversight bodies, to conduct joint risk assessments and strengthen early-warning systems.
Ethekon urged stakeholders to strengthen cooperation to prevent violence and protect the rights of voters and candidates. He stressed that no Kenyan should fear participating in an election and encouraged stakeholders to commit to a shared assessment of local electoral risks. The programme seeks to establish effective early-warning and rapid-response mechanisms, clearly define institutional responsibilities and escalation procedures, and ensure credible investigations of electoral offences.
The IEBC Chairperson outlined the Commission's objective to prevent violence and protect participation throughout the electoral process, including registration, party nominations, campaigns, voting, and tallying. He emphasized that the message of electoral security should reach every resident of cosmopolitan Mombasa to help prevent electoral violence that disrupts daily life. Ethekon also urged political leaders to compete on ideas and reject violence, while the media and digital communicators were encouraged to verify information and responsibly counter falsehoods.
The security and justice sector was urged to uphold professionalism, impartiality, and accountability, while development partners were asked to support preparations early and complement national funding. Ethekon noted that the credibility of the 2027 General Election will depend on the collective efforts of all stakeholders. He emphasized that the meeting came at a time when Kenyans are questioning their future, institutions, and whether their voices will truly count.
Ethekon said families are facing economic pressures, young people are demanding opportunities and accountability, and political debate is becoming increasingly intense. He stressed that the Commission must listen, respond honestly, and earn public confidence through its conduct. The IEBC Chairperson affirmed that the Commission remains committed to delivering a credible, inclusive, and transparent election in which every eligible Kenyan can participate freely and every valid vote counts.
The Commission called for timely funding and coordinated institutional support as it implements its Election Operations Plan, voter registration, and preparations covering electoral operations, technology, personnel, and stakeholder engagement. Ethekon said preparedness must also be measured by the confidence of a first-time voter, the safety of a woman seeking office, and the assurance that political competition will be governed by the law.
Ethekon emphasized that electoral security begins long before polling day and continues after results are declared. He urged authorities to listen to local concerns and work with trusted community voices before disagreements escalate. The IEBC Chairperson also stressed that young people must be central to efforts to promote peaceful elections, as their energy, scrutiny, and aspirations can strengthen democracy.
Key points
- The IEBC is enhancing cooperation among security, justice, and other stakeholders to prevent violence and protect the rights of voters and candidates.
- The Commission is committed to delivering a credible, inclusive, and transparent election in which every eligible Kenyan can participate freely and every valid vote counts.
- Electoral security must protect both public safety and constitutional freedoms, with a focus on preventing violence, intimidation, and incitement.
