A new report by the European Union has raised serious concerns about Kenya’s slow progress in implementing critical electoral reforms ahead of the 2027 General Election. The EU Election Follow-up Mission Kenya 2025 Final Report, released on Thursday, cites a glaring lack of political will as the primary obstacle to ensuring transparent and credible elections.
According to the report, only one of the 21 recommendations made by the 2022 EU Election Observation Mission has been partially implemented. That recommendation involves the removal of the academic degree requirement for candidates, a reform that remains only partly addressed. While some proposals and technical adjustments have been initiated, many key reforms particularly those requiring legislative and political commitment remain untouched.
The report underscores the urgency of reconstituting the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), which has remained in limbo since the 2022 elections. The delayed formation of a new IEBC board and inadequate funding for voter education and registration are seen as significant threats to the credibility of the 2027 electoral process.
Furthermore, the EU report warns that time is running out. With just over two years remaining, the window for effective electoral reforms is rapidly narrowing. The report calls on the Kenyan government and Parliament to urgently prioritize reforms that promote transparency, ensure institutional independence, and build public trust.
The EU also highlights the need for timely regulation of campaign financing, which must be in place at least a year before the election. This, they argue, is essential to curb the high cost of elections and foster the participation of women, youth, and marginalized groups.
Additionally, the long-overdue process of electoral boundary review is cited as another critical area requiring immediate attention.
Despite the slow progress, the EU maintains that there is still a viable opportunity for comprehensive reforms if political leaders act with urgency and genuine commitment. The success of upcoming by-elections will serve as a litmus test for the readiness and credibility of the reconstituted electoral body.
