Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has expressed hope that Kenya's 2027 general election will be peaceful and free from disruptions. Speaking at a reception to mark the 77th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China, Mudavadi said the country is looking forward to a safe and petition-free election. He emphasized the importance of strengthening the independence of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to safeguard the integrity of elections.
The event, attended by over 500 guests, including members of the diplomatic corps, government officials, and Kenyans from various walks of life, was held at the Chinese Embassy in Nairobi. Mudavadi highlighted the need for strong institutions in fighting corruption, combating tribalism, and enhancing national unity. He cited China's long-term nation-building experience as an example for Kenya to develop its own institutions.
Mudavadi's remarks come as the IEBC prepares for the 2027 polls, with the commission undertaking key preparations for the elections. The Prime Cabinet Secretary linked the need for strong institutions to the country's development agenda, citing the new development framework President William Ruto's team is pushing for as Vision 2030 approaches its conclusion.
Kenya and China have lessons to share as both countries pursue national transformation, Mudavadi said. He recalled President William Ruto's state visit to China in April 2025, during which the two countries elevated their relationship to an All-Weather Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. This partnership has resulted in agreements covering finance, manufacturing, and value addition, infrastructure, health, tourism, culture, and education.
Mudavadi particularly cited the China-Africa Development Economic Partnership Agreement (CADEPA), under which Kenya and China signed an Early Harvest Agreement in March this year. The arrangement, which took effect in May, allows Kenyan exports to China to enter the market without tariffs. Mudavadi said the agreement is already supporting growth in exports of products such as coffee, avocadoes, and tea.
The Prime Cabinet Secretary also praised China's role in infrastructure development, including roads, railways, and renewable energy. He cited plans for the dualling of the Nairobi-Nakuru-Mau Summit highway towards Kisumu and Malaba and the extension of the Standard Gauge Railway from Naivasha through Kisumu to Malaba. These projects are expected to strengthen regional connectivity and help landlocked countries access the Indian Ocean for trade.
The event was attended by senior Kenyan government officials, MPs, members of the diplomatic corps, international organisations, and representatives of the Chinese community. Mudavadi said Kenya is ready to begin comprehensive negotiations with China on all aspects of CADEPA, arguing that this would unlock investment opportunities and improve Kenya's capacity to compete in the Chinese market.
Key points
- Mudavadi calls for a peaceful and petition-free 2027 election
- Strengthening IEBC independence crucial for election integrity
- Kenya and China to enhance cooperation under CADEPA agreement
