The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has strongly dismissed allegations that the 2027 General Election could be manipulated, warning that such claims are “reckless, baseless and entirely unacceptable.”
In a detailed statement, the Commission said it had taken “grave concern” over utterances by unnamed political actors suggesting they could influence the electoral process through what it termed “extra-legal mechanisms.”
“These utterances, which have elicited considerable disquiet within the electoral environment, pose a real risk of distorting public perception of Kenya’s democratic processes,” IEBC said.
The Commission went further, warning that the statements were deliberately designed to undermine public trust.
“IEBC considers such utterances to be unacceptable, reckless, and entirely baseless,” the statement read. “The utterances are clearly intended to instil fear, mislead the public and erode confidence in the integrity of the electoral system.”
It urged Kenyans to reject the claims outright.
“IEBC therefore urges all Kenyans to disregard, dissociate and refrain from amplifying them,” the Commission added.
The statement comes amid growing political tension, with leaders allied to the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and opposition figures trading accusations over alleged plans to influence the next election.
Opposition leaders have pointed to remarks made in political rallies and online spaces by some UDA-aligned politicians suggesting that elections can be “managed” or “controlled,” claims that have sparked public outrage and renewed debate over electoral integrity.
IEBC, however, declined to engage in partisan exchanges, insisting its role remains strictly institutional.
The Commission also used the statement to clarify the legal framework governing electoral conduct, noting that the Electoral Code of Conduct is not currently in force.
“Whereas the IEBC unequivocally condemns and dismisses these utterances with the contempt they deserve, it is important to clarify the current legal position,” the Commission said.
It explained that the Electoral Code of Conduct—set out under Article 84 of the Constitution and Section 110 of the Elections Act—is only operational during an active election period, when the Commission assumes enforcement jurisdiction.
“This legal position was affirmed by the Supreme Court in the judgment of Hon. Sabina Chege Supreme Court Petition No. 23 (E026) of 2022,” IEBC noted.
“Notably, the IEBC has not declared any elections. Further, there is no publication of the 2027 General Election that has been made to warrant the current wave of premature and irresponsible utterances,” it said.
IEBC assures readiness for 2027 polls
Reaffirming its institutional independence, IEBC said it remains committed to delivering a credible election.
“The Commission reiterates its unwavering commitment to upholding its constitutional mandate,” the statement said. “IEBC assures the public and all stakeholders that it will continue to safeguard its independence and impartiality.”
It added that it remains fully dedicated to ensuring the 2027 General Election is “free, fair and credible in accordance with the laws of Kenya and international best practices.”
The Commission’s warning comes as political rhetoric intensifies months before formal election preparations begin, raising concerns over early campaigning and inflammatory statements that could test public confidence in the electoral system.
