NAIROBI – The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has strongly dismissed recent claims of election malpractice, warning that such remarks are misleading and risk undermining public trust in Kenya’s electoral system.
In a statement released on Monday, the IEBC criticized politicians who have been making public allegations of rigging and electoral bias, calling their comments “reckless” and unfounded.
“These statements are unacceptable in a democratic society. There is no declared election, no gazettement, and no campaign period underway,” the Commission said.
The Commission emphasized that it has not announced any upcoming elections and therefore no official electoral processes are in motion that would warrant allegations of malpractice. The agency also clarified that the Electoral Code of Conduct Enforcement Committee, established under Article 84 of the Constitution and Section 110 of the Elections Act, only operates during an election period.
This clarification followed a rise in political commentary suggesting that preparations for future elections were being mishandled. The IEBC pointed to a 2022 Supreme Court ruling in Sabina Chege v. IEBC, which limited the committee’s jurisdiction to officially declared electoral periods.
The Commission urged political leaders to avoid issuing statements that could erode public confidence in the democratic process.
“Stakeholders must refrain from inciting the public or peddling propaganda. The IEBC will continue to engage political parties and leaders on constructive dialogue to restore public trust,” the statement read.
The IEBC confirmed that it is now fully constituted and is prioritizing reforms aimed at rebuilding credibility after past electoral challenges. As part of this effort, the Commission committed to upholding independence and impartiality in all electoral matters.
It also called on the public to rely only on official communication from the Commission’s website and verified social media accounts to avoid misinformation.
“The IEBC remains committed to delivering free, fair, and credible elections in line with constitutional provisions and international standards,” the statement concluded.
The Commission’s response comes amid a heightened political environment, with some leaders attempting to rally support ahead of any formal electoral cycle. IEBC has made it clear: Kenya is not in an election period, and premature claims serve only to stir unnecessary tension.
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