Bungoma County – National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has delivered a sharp warning to political leaders attempting to sway the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC). He called for full respect of the Commission’s independence ahead of crucial electoral activities, including by-elections and a national voter registration exercise.
Speaking during a Sunday service at St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Kanduyi, Bungoma County, Wetang’ula told politicians particularly younger leaders to stop making public declarations that could damage the IEBC’s credibility.
“The IEBC does not take instructions from anyone not even the President,” Speaker Wetang’ula said. “Politicians must stop issuing directives to the Commission from podiums. Let the IEBC operate freely and fairly.”
Wetangula emphasized that the Commission’s independence is protected by the Constitution, and that undermining its autonomy risks eroding public trust in Kenya’s electoral process.
Wetang’ula confirmed that the National Assembly is ready to approve funding for the IEBC’s upcoming tasks. A supplementary budget, which includes allocations for the voter registration campaign, is expected to be tabled soon. “Once the budget is presented, Members of Parliament will fast-track its passage to ensure the Commission has what it needs to register voters across the country,” Wetangula said.
The Speaker also encouraged the youth to register as voters. He pointed to President William Ruto’s recent directive that eases ID acquisition processes an effort to boost registration among first-time voters.
“I urge young people to take this opportunity and get their IDs. Your vote will shape the future of this country,” Wetangula said. Wetang’ula cautioned politicians not to weaponize the 2027 presidential race to divide the country. “Seeking power must never come at the cost of our national unity,” he stated. “Kenya is bigger than any individual’s ambition.”
Bungoma Senator David Wakoli and Kanduyi MP John Makali echoed Wetang’ula’s remarks, calling for restraint, respect for institutions, and continued prayers for national peace. “I ask the church to continue praying for unity in our country,” Senator Wakoli said during the service.
The event was led by Rev. Father Protus Osianju, who also prayed for wisdom and stability in Kenya’s leadership.
The IEBC, recently reconstituted after months of political debate, is expected to play a central role in managing upcoming by-elections and preparing for the 2027 general election. Public scrutiny over its independence remains high as political temperatures begin to rise across the country.
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