Kanchory explains how Kenyans can stop vote rigging
By Aloys Michael, August 7, 2025Former Azimio La Umoja chief agent Saitabao Ole Kanchory has issued a stern warning regarding the integrity of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) ahead of the polls.
The remarks come amid growing tension from the political leaders across the divide as by-elections and the 2027 general elections near.
In a statement on his X account on Thursday, August 7, 2025, Kanchory emphasised that rigging is not a singular event but an ongoing process that begins long before election day.
“Rigging is not an event; rigging is a process. Rigging is not one thing; it is many things, but it always starts with a compromised electoral body,” the statement read.
He stressed the importance of vigilance, especially in monitoring the commission that oversees the elections.
“To prevent electoral theft, we must watch and mark Ruto’s commission like a good defender marks a lethal striker,” Kanchory warned.
He highlighted the necessity of prevention over reaction.
“To stop rigging, you must prevent it from happening. You must not wait till it happens. Rigging (does not) start on election day. It starts NOW!” he wrote.
His remarks also come amid calls for early and consistent scrutiny of the IEBC’s activities, policies, and personnel to ensure transparency and fairness.
Kanchory’s tackles
Despite his criticisms, Kanchory suggested that the controversial appointment of the current IEBC commissioners by President William Ruto might be a blessing in disguise.
He explained that “they have lost the element of surprise, which is key to their mission.” This, he said, could empower opposition and civil society to be more alert and better prepared to counter any manipulation attempts.
“The fact that Ruto forced a suspicious electoral commission on us can be a blessing in disguise,” he said.
“When you know a thief is coming, then you are to blame for the theft, not the thief.”
Kanchory dismissed the post-election claims of rigging as ineffective without prior prevention measures.
A section of political leaders has publicly claimed that they will rig elections in the 2027 contest in support of the ruling coalition.
“Just remember that everything you say after elections are rigged is HOT AIR. Prevention is the key,” the statement read.