The Chief Justice of Kenya Martha Koome has called for urgent legal, institutional and technological reforms within the electoral system, warning that the credibility of future elections will depend on stronger laws, better safeguards and public trust in electoral processes.
Speaking during the launch of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) Strategic Plan 2024–2029 and Election Operation Plan 2025–2027, Koome said the reforms mark a key milestone in strengthening democracy and improving electoral governance ahead of the 2027 General Election.
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission unveiled the two frameworks as part of its long-term strategy to improve election management, enhance inclusivity and deepen citizen participation.
Koome said elections should not be viewed as single-day events but as continuous institutional processes that require strong legal foundations, adequate planning and sustained institutional coordination.
“This Strategic Plan comes at a critical time in our nation’s democratic development,” she said, noting that electoral success depends on planning, resources and a sound legal framework that guides all stakeholders.
She specifically welcomed the plan’s focus on strengthening the electoral legal framework, saying Kenya must address inconsistencies in electoral laws, close legal gaps identified in past elections, and clearly define timelines and dispute resolution mechanisms.
Koome also highlighted the growing role of technology in elections, warning that while it has improved efficiency and transparency, it cannot on its own guarantee credibility.
“Technology alone cannot guarantee credibility,” she said. “Its effectiveness depends on robust legal safeguards, institutional oversight and public trust.”
She called for stronger legal provisions addressing cybersecurity, data protection and transparency in electronic voting and results transmission systems, stressing that electoral technology must be properly regulated, audited and trusted by all stakeholders.
The Chief Justice further emphasised the importance of inclusion in electoral processes, noting that women, youth, persons with disabilities and marginalised communities must be fully integrated into democratic participation.
“The strength of any democracy is measured not only by elections but by the extent to which all citizens participate meaningfully,” she said.
Koome added that public confidence in elections cannot be imposed but must be earned through accountability, integrity and consistent improvement of electoral systems.
The IEBC Strategic Plan outlines four key priorities: effective election management, citizen engagement, equitable representation and strengthened institutional governance. The Election Operation Plan 2025–2027 translates these priorities into implementation steps ahead of the next general election.
Koome said the success of the reforms will ultimately be measured by the level of public confidence in electoral outcomes and the credibility of the democratic process.
“Strengthening democracy is not the responsibility of one institution alone,” she said, calling for cooperation between electoral bodies, the Judiciary, political actors, civil society and citizens to safeguard Kenya’s democratic future.
