IEBC Warns of Disqualification for Politicians Linked to Violence Ahead of 2027 Polls
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has issued a strong warning to political aspirants, stating that anyone found using goons to cause chaos during campaigns or electoral activities will be disqualified from contesting in the 2027 general elections.
Speaking on Wednesday, April 22, the commission’s chairperson, Erastus Ethekon, made it clear that the electoral body will not tolerate any form of violence or disruption linked to politicians.
He emphasized that leaders who choose to incite disorder instead of engaging voters peacefully risk being locked out of the race altogether.
Ethekon expressed concern over what he described as a growing and dangerous trend in Kenya’s political environment.
According to him, some politicians are taking advantage of unemployed youth by recruiting them as goons to interfere with rallies, intimidate opponents, and destabilize the electoral process. He noted that this behavior not only undermines democracy but also puts lives at risk.
“There is a worrying pattern emerging where young people are being mobilised and used to create violence during political events,” he explained.
He added that instead of focusing on policies and development agendas, some leaders are turning to chaos as a political tool, which the commission now intends to firmly deal with.
The IEBC chairperson assured the public that the commission is closely monitoring political activities across the country.
He warned that any politician found responsible for organizing or funding such acts of violence will face strict consequences, including immediate disqualification from participating in elections.
“Moving forward, we will not hesitate to take decisive action. Any politician found culpable of disrupting the electoral process will be disqualified without exception,” Ethekon stated firmly.
He also pointed to past incidents to highlight the seriousness of the issue. In particular, he referenced the violence witnessed during the November 2025 by-elections in Mbeere North, Malaba, and Kasipul constituencies, where clashes and disruptions were reported.
The warning comes at a time when political tensions are rising in different parts of the country. Recent events have shown an increase in attacks, confrontations, and disruptions during political gatherings, raising concerns among citizens and authorities alike.
One such incident involved Godfrey Ostsi, the Vihiga Senator, who was reportedly attacked by goons in Kisumu. He sustained serious injuries during the incident and had to be airlifted to Nairobi for specialised medical treatment.
In another case, goons disrupted several political rallies, particularly those organised by opposition leaders. These leaders have accused the government of being behind the attacks, claiming that the disruptions are meant to silence dissenting voices and weaken their campaigns.
Tensions were also evident in Kikuyu constituency, where the convoy of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua was blocked by groups of goons. The situation escalated as supporters were harassed, forcing police officers to step in and restore order.
However, investigations by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) suggest a more complex picture.
According to the agency, many of these disruptions are not always externally driven, as often claimed. Instead, some politicians are allegedly responsible for sponsoring chaos at their own events for political gain or publicity.
The DCI cited a February incident in Kakamega during the Linda Mwananchi tour, where violence broke out and tragically led to the loss of one life. This, they say, is a clear example of how dangerous and unpredictable such tactics can become.
As the country moves closer to the 2027 elections, the IEBC’s message is clear: political competition must be conducted peacefully, and any attempt to use violence or intimidation will be met with firm and immediate action.
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