Nairobi — The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the integrity of Kenya’s electoral process, with Chairperson Edung Ethekon stating that election manipulation is “an impossibility” due to strengthened transparency measures and technological advancements.
Speaking during a post-election debrief, Ethekon highlighted the commission’s efforts to enhance the credibility of the recent by-elections, citing the deployment of improved technology and strict audit trails. The IEBC chairperson emphasized that every action at polling stations leaves a digital footprint, enabling real-time monitoring and verification of results.
The commission reported a 99 percent functionality rate for the KIEMS kits used in the polls, facilitating seamless voter identification and near-real-time transmission of results. Additionally, all results forms were made available at polling stations, published on the IEBC portal, and cross-checked at tallying centers to ensure full transparency.
Ethekon acknowledged instances of voter apathy but noted that attempts to influence the vote were mitigated through heightened vigilance by presiding officers and security agencies. While isolated incidents of harassment and interference were recorded, the IEBC boss confirmed that none compromised the integrity of the outcome.
The IEBC chairperson cautioned political actors against undermining electoral officers or attempting to interfere with operational processes, emphasizing that elections belong to the people and not politicians. He reiterated the commission’s commitment to enhancing technology, training, and transparency ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Election observers, civil society groups, and party agents present at the meeting supported calls for stronger adherence to electoral laws and respect for the boundaries of political roles. The IEBC assured stakeholders of its dedication to conducting credible, verifiable, and peaceful elections, with Ethekon reiterating that the commission’s systems have proven robust and tamper-proof.
As Kenya looks to the 2027 General Election, the IEBC’s commitment to electoral integrity and transparency is likely to remain a key focus, with the commission building on the successes of the recent by-elections to ensure the credibility and legitimacy of the electoral process.