The newly constituted Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has outlined a comprehensive roadmap ahead of Kenya’s 2027 General Election, promising to deliver free, fair, and credible polls.
Speaking during their first official briefing at a retreat in Mombasa, IEBC Chairperson Dr. Erastus Ethokon confirmed the commission’s readiness to fulfill its constitutional mandate following their swearing-in on July 11, 2025. He was joined by Vice Chairperson Fahima Araphat and commissioners Ann Njeri Nderitu, Moses Mukhwana, Mary Sorobit, Hassan Noor Hassan, and Francis Aduol.
Dr. Ethokon emphasized the commission’s unity and commitment, announcing immediate plans to address 23 pending by-elections across the country, which include one Senate seat, six National Assembly seats, and 16 Members of County Assembly (MCA) positions. These vacancies stem from deaths, resignations, and court rulings.
The IEBC is in discussions with Parliament and political parties to expedite writs for the by-elections, while engaging the National Treasury to secure funding. “We empathise with the affected constituents and assure them that steps are being taken to restore their right to representation,” said Dr. Ethokon.
Acknowledging growing demand for voter registration, especially among the youth, the Chairperson revealed plans to resume Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) in August 2025. A gazette notice detailing dates and procedures will be issued soon, alongside intensified voter education and stakeholder engagement.
The commission also seeks to address the long-delayed boundary review process, which was due by March 2024. IEBC has requested a Supreme Court advisory on proceeding beyond the constitutional deadline and will await the verdict before engaging stakeholders.
To bolster the electoral framework, IEBC has submitted several amendment bills to Parliament, including the Elections (Amendment) Bill, 2024, and the Referendum Bill, 2024. It is also reviewing multiple electoral regulations, all of which will undergo public participation.
In response to recent political allegations, Dr. Ethokon strongly denied claims of election rigging, urging leaders to uphold the integrity of the electoral process. “We are committed to transparency and restoring public trust in Kenya’s democracy,” he stated.
