Ethekon calls on politicians to cease rhetoric suggesting improper motives at IEBC
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) Chairperson, Erastus Edung Ethekon, has urged politicians to refrain from making statements that may cast aspersions on the electoral body’s integrity.
Speaking during a press briefing in Nairobi on Saturday, July 19, 2025, Ethekon cautioned that inflammatory remarks could undermine public confidence in the commission as the country prepares for the August 10, 2027, general election.
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“I urge politicians to desist from utterances that are inflammatory and likely to impute improper motives to IEBC,” Ethekon stated. He dismissed recent claims questioning the commission’s neutrality, reiterating the IEBC’s commitment to fairness.
“We are not worried about those sentiments. In fact, we issued a statement last week addressing this. We are urging all citizens to work with us in good faith,” he added.
Kenya’s electoral history, particularly during the 2017 and 2022 general elections, has often been marred by polarised political rhetoric and accusations of bias. Ethekon’s remarks seek to prevent a repeat of such tensions by promoting a climate of constructive engagement.
IEBC transparent election plans
Ethekon, who was recently sworn in as IEBC chairperson, reaffirmed the commission’s preparedness to conduct an inclusive, credible, and peaceful election in 2027. He emphasised the IEBC’s adherence to the Constitution of Kenya and all relevant electoral laws.
“As the commission embarks on its roadmap for the 2027 elections, we wish to assure the public of our readiness to deliver credible, transparent, and peaceful polls,” he said. Ethekon also acknowledged concerns over the commission’s delayed reconstitution but maintained that IEBC is on course to meet all constitutional timelines.
Stakeholder collaboration
Highlighting the importance of collective responsibility, Ethekon called on all electoral stakeholders, including parliament, the media, civil society, and development partners, to collaborate with the IEBC in advancing the country’s electoral framework.
“A robust democracy relies on institutional integrity and active participation of all members of the public,” he noted. He further outlined the commission’s priority tasks, which include voter education, the General Elections Management Plan (GEMP), and enhancing electoral transparency.
Ethekon’s remarks signal a proactive effort to restore public trust and foster unity as Kenya heads toward 2027. By inviting cooperation and emphasising constitutional compliance, the IEBC hopes to steer the nation toward a peaceful, fair, and transparent electoral process, reinforcing the pillars of Kenya’s democracy.
