The Uchaguzi Platform, a coalition of electoral reform advocates including the Electoral Law and Governance Institute for Africa (ELGIA), the Center for Multiparty Democracy (CMD-Kenya), and the Elections Observation Group (ELOG) among others, has issued a strong call for the urgent reconstitution of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC). At a presser with journalists in Nairobi on Friday, the group expressed concern over the prolonged leadership vacuum at the electoral body, which has remained without commissioners for more than two years following the expiry of terms for three commissioners, the resignation of three others, and the dismissal of one in 2023.
With Kenya preparing for the 2027 general elections, the coalition emphasized the need for a credible and efficient selection process. Uchaguzi Platform urged the newly gazetted selection panel to conduct its work with independence, transparency, and inclusivity, ensuring that the process remains impartial and free from political interference. The group called on the political class to respect the selection process and allow the panel to fulfill its mandate without undue pressure, warning that any external influence could undermine public confidence in the recruitment exercise.
Additionally, the lobby group pressed for an expedited selection process, urging Parliament and the Presidency to fulfill their roles swiftly. Given the 132-day timeline for appointing new commissioners, the coalition stressed that any delays could severely impact the electoral roadmap. They also called on media agencies and civil society organizations to actively monitor the process and provide regular updates to ensure transparency and accountability. The Judiciary was urged to prioritize and fast-track any legal matters related to the selection process to prevent unnecessary setbacks. Furthermore, Uchaguzi encouraged qualified individuals who meet the legal and constitutional requirements to apply for the IEBC commissioner roles, underscoring the importance of appointing individuals with integrity and competence.
Beyond the reconstitution of the commission, the coalition highlighted the urgent and complex tasks awaiting the new IEBC. Key among these is the need to conduct pending by-elections in various constituencies and wards where citizens have been left without representation. The group also raised concerns over the delayed boundary delimitation process, which must be completed in line with constitutional timelines to avoid potential legal disputes. Another pressing issue is voter registration and the independent audit of the voter register, which the group insists should begin immediately to ensure credibility and avoid last-minute rushes. The coalition further pointed to budgetary constraints, warning that inadequate funding could hamper the IEBC’s ability to effectively prepare for the elections.
Uchaguzi Platform also addressed the broader issue of electoral reforms, welcoming the efforts of the National Dialogue Committee (NADCO) in advancing key legislative proposals. The coalition acknowledged that the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (Amendment) Bill 2024 and the Political Parties (Amendment) Act 2024 are critical in addressing long-standing institutional challenges. However, they emphasized the need for meaningful public participation in the legislative process, warning against superficial consultations that do not genuinely reflect the views of the people. They called for a comprehensive approach to electoral reforms that not only strengthens institutions but also considers the financial implications and broader governance structures.
As Parliament works within a 45-day window to finalize these legislative proposals, Uchaguzi Platform urged lawmakers to prioritize the interests of citizens over political considerations. The coalition further called for the swift passage of the Election Campaign Financing (ECF) Bill, stressing that proper regulation of campaign financing is essential to curb the use of illicit wealth and public resources in elections. The group also underscored the need for consensus-building among key electoral stakeholders, including civil society organizations, the IEBC, political parties, and law enforcement agencies, to ensure that reforms are inclusive and widely accepted.
With the 2027 elections approaching, Uchaguzi Platform warned that failure to reconstitute the IEBC in time and implement necessary reforms could lead to electoral instability. They stressed that the re-establishment of the commission is not just a legal obligation but a fundamental step in safeguarding democracy and ensuring free, fair, and credible elections. The coalition concluded by reaffirming its commitment to advocating for complete, timely, and effective electoral reforms that will enhance public confidence in Kenya’s democratic processes.