Envoys call for increased funding, voter access as IEBC commissioners assume office
The diplomats urged the Kenyan government, through the National Assembly and National Treasury, to allocate sufficient and timely funding to enable the IEBC to fulfil its mandate effectively.
A group of Western diplomats has lauded the appointment of a new chairperson and commissioners to Kenya’s Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), calling the move a significant step in strengthening the country's democratic processes.
In a joint statement, the envoys from 12 embassies and high commissions, including the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, Germany, Sweden, Norway, and others, expressed strong support for the newly constituted IEBC and emphasised the importance of its independence and transparency in upholding Kenya’s constitutional values.
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"As Kenya's longstanding partners and fellow democracies, we affirm the critical role independent institutions play in upholding the provisions of Kenya's constitution, particularly those guaranteeing free, fair, and credible elections. The IEBC plays a foundational role in safeguarding the integrity of Kenya's electoral processes and ensuring public confidence in democratic outcomes," the statement read in part.
The diplomats urged the Kenyan government, through the National Assembly and National Treasury, to allocate sufficient and timely funding to enable the IEBC to fulfil its mandate effectively. They also called on relevant state agencies to ensure that all eligible citizens can register and participate in the electoral process without hindrance.
“We trust the new commissioners will carry out their mandate with impartiality, transparency, and professionalism in service to all Kenyans,” the diplomats stated.
The 12 signatories further pledged their continued partnership in supporting Kenya’s electoral systems and democratic institutions, saying they were ready to work together to bolster public confidence in electoral processes.
"We stand ready, working in partnership, to further strengthen electoral systems and bolster public trust in Kenya’s democratic institutions."
This comes just days after the newly appointed chairperson and commissioners of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) were officially sworn into office, marking a fresh chapter for the electoral body ahead of the 2027 General Elections.
Now fully constituted, the commission affirmed its commitment to engage political leaders and stakeholders in efforts to restore public confidence in Kenya’s electoral system.
“We call on all actors, particularly those in the political space, to refrain from issuing statements or taking actions that erode trust in our electoral processes,” IEBC said.
“Let us work together to foster transparency, accountability, and stability.”
The electoral body also reaffirmed its independence and impartiality in discharging its constitutional mandate, pledging to deliver free, fair and credible elections guided by the law and international best practices.
“The commission remains resolute in its mission to safeguard Kenya’s democracy. We urge all citizens to rely on verified information and official channels for any updates concerning electoral matters,” it said.
Ethekon will be assisted by Fahima Abdallah, who was elected vice chairperson.
The other commissioners are Ann Njeri Nderitu, Moses Alutalala Mukhwana, Mary Karen Sorobit, Hassan Noor Hassan, and Francis Odhiambo Aduol.
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