The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has officially started the election period for the August 10, 2027 General Election, putting politicians, political parties and their supporters on notice to follow election laws.
The move follows the publication of Gazette Notice No. 13497 on August 20, which brought into effect the Electoral Code of Conduct and the Election Offences Act.
“Let us choose peace over violence, unity over division and issues over personalities,” the IEBC said as it called on politicians to conduct their campaigns peacefully.
The Commission warned political leaders, candidates and their supporters against violence, hate speech, lies and other actions that could break election laws as political activities pick up ahead of the 2027 polls.
It said the start of the election period means the rules contained in the Electoral Code of Conduct and the Election Offences Act are now in force for the 2027 General Election.
The IEBC called on political leaders to show restraint and ensure their competition remains peaceful and within the law.
“Differences in political opinion are a legitimate and necessary feature of democracy,” the Commission said. “Let us resist the temptation to spread misinformation, incite hatred or demonise those with whom we disagree.”
The Commission said a peaceful election would require the support of all key groups, including government agencies, political parties, the media, civil society, faith-based organisations and development partners.
It also urged Kenyans to register as voters and check that their voter details are correct.
The IEBC further asked voters to reject false information and take part in the election process peacefully and responsibly.
The Commission said it would continue giving Kenyans information about the election and working with different groups to prepare for the polls.
“Kenya has demonstrated its capacity to conduct competitive elections while preserving its democratic institutions, and the 2027 General Election must provide yet another opportunity to demonstrate the maturity and resilience of our democracy,” the IEBC said.
With less than a year to the General Election, political campaigns and efforts to form alliances are expected to increase, making the conduct of leaders and their supporters a major focus for the electoral agency.
The IEBC said it wants the 2027 General Election to be peaceful, open, fair and conducted according to the law.
