IEBC Dismisses Rigging Claims Ahead of 2027 General Election
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has strongly rejected claims suggesting that the voter register could be manipulated ahead of the 2027 General Election.
The Commission assured Kenyans that all processes involving voter data are conducted legally, securely, and in full compliance with the Constitution and existing electoral laws.
In a statement released on February 16, the electoral body responded to concerns raised by Justin Muturi, the leader of the Democratic Party (DP). Muturi had questioned the Commission’s engagement with certain government institutions, raising fears that such cooperation could lead to interference with voter information.
IEBC, however, clarified that its collaboration with state agencies is a normal and necessary part of maintaining an accurate voter register.
The Commission explained that its responsibilities are clearly outlined in Article 88(4) of the Constitution and Sections 4 and 6 of the Elections Act, 2011.
These laws require IEBC to continuously update and maintain a credible voter register while operating independently and without influence from any individual, institution, or political office. According to the Commission, this independence remains a key principle guiding all its operations.
IEBC further stated that working with government agencies helps ensure that voter details are accurate and up to date. The process includes verifying identity information and removing the names of deceased persons from the register.
The Commission emphasized that such cooperation is not unusual but rather part of fulfilling its constitutional duty. It added that relevant government institutions are the lawful custodians of important data needed for proper verification.
Among the agencies mentioned were the National Registration Bureau, Civil Registration Services, and the Directorate of Immigration Services.
These institutions assist in confirming identity details, including passport information for Kenyans living abroad who qualify to register and vote in national elections.
The Commission also noted that any data-sharing arrangements with public or private institutions are governed by strict legal procedures.
These measures are meant to strengthen identity verification, prevent fraud, and ensure that only eligible voters are included in the register.
IEBC reassured the public that the voter register remains under its sole custody and control, and that personal data is protected under the Constitution, the Elections Act, and the Data Protection Act of 2019.
At the same time, the Commission urged political leaders and stakeholders to avoid making statements that are not supported by evidence.
IEBC warned that unverified claims could weaken public trust in electoral institutions and create unnecessary tension ahead of future elections.
The response followed remarks made by Muturi during a political rally in Zimmerman, Roysambu, where he accused President William Ruto of allegedly planning to use national identification data belonging to young people to influence the outcome of the 2027 polls.
Muturi claimed that a past meeting between IEBC officials and the National Registration Bureau raised concerns about possible voter data manipulation.
Despite these allegations, the electoral body has firmly denied any wrongdoing. IEBC reiterated its commitment to transparency, accountability, and the protection of electoral integrity, assuring Kenyans that all preparations toward future elections will continue to follow the law and established democratic principles.
Join Tutam Official WhatsApp Channel to stay updated on time
https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaWT5gSGufImU8R0DO30
