The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has appealed to Kenyans to exercise patience with the newly constituted team as they prepare for the 2027 General Election. Commissioner Alutalala Mukhwana made the remarks on Monday, September 29, 2025, during an interview with a local media outlet, where he emphasized that the current commission should not be judged by past shortcomings.
“Let’s not be tied to our past bad experiences and stifle a commission that is here to bring fresh air. Give us a chance,” Alutalala said, urging Kenyans to evaluate the commission based on its forthcoming work rather than historical failures.
He added in Swahili, “Tuiipe hii tume nafasi tuikashifu baadaye tukiiona iko na makosa; tusiikashifu kwa misingi ya yale yaliopita,” meaning Kenyans should allow the new team room to prove themselves before passing judgment.
The commissioner assured Kenyans of a transparent and credible electoral process, citing new measures aimed at improving voter accuracy. Among these is the commission’s plan to enhance biometric voter registration by capturing additional features, including the eyes of new voters, to strengthen credibility and reduce chances of electoral fraud.
Meanwhile, IEBC officially launched a nationwide mass voter registration exercise on Monday. This process allows new voters to enlist, citizens who have relocated to update their details, and all voters to confirm their records ahead of the 2027 polls.
Eligibility remains anchored on Article 83 of the Constitution. To register, one must be a Kenyan citizen aged 18 years and above, and present either a valid national identity card or a Kenyan passport.
Voter registration plays a crucial role in strengthening democracy by ensuring only eligible citizens participate in choosing leaders. The IEBC says this exercise offers Kenyans an opportunity to secure their right to vote and influence leadership at both national and county levels.
With the 2027 General Election drawing closer, the commission has urged citizens to take advantage of the registration drive to safeguard their democratic voice.
