IEBC calls on media to help rebuild trust in electoral system
At the same time, Ethekon made a strong appeal to the media to support IEBC’s efforts in rebuilding public confidence in Kenya’s elections. He said the media plays a powerful role in shaping perceptions and must become an active partner in the commission’s work.
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) chairperson, Erastus Ethekon, has acknowledged that delays in reconstituting the electoral body have slowed preparations for upcoming electoral events, including by-elections, but affirmed that the commission is working flat out to meet its obligations.
Addressing the media, Ethekon said the commission was facing time and resource constraints but had already rolled up its sleeves to ensure all constitutional responsibilities are met.
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He said IEBC staff have begun working beyond normal hours, including weekends, to stay on course.
“We know we have to work extra hours. You’ve seen this weekend, we are working. We don’t have time off, so we will try what is humanly possible on our part,” Ethekon said on Saturday.
He called for the support of Parliament, the National Treasury, and other key agencies to help the commission navigate its tight timelines.
The delay in the commission’s full formation, he noted, had held back critical planning for electoral activities.
At the same time, Ethekon made a strong appeal to the media to support IEBC’s efforts in rebuilding public confidence in Kenya’s elections. He said the media plays a powerful role in shaping perceptions and must become an active partner in the commission’s work.
“You are powerful enough to change the narrative from negativity to positivity. That is our humble appeal,” he said, urging media to counter fake news, disinformation, and narratives that undermine the electoral process.
The IEBC chair acknowledged the existence of a trust deficit in the electoral system but said there are early signs of progress.
The new leadership, Ethekon added, is committed to building on that and is open to dialogue, scrutiny, and correction when needed.
“Help us to restore that confidence, to restore that trust in our elections and our electoral processes,” he said.
Ethekon encouraged journalists to reach out to the commission directly with tough questions, promising openness and accountability.
“Please criticise us based on facts, but best case scenario, before you criticise, just come to my office or the vice chair and meet anyone of us you are comfortable with and ask those hard questions,” he said.
He concluded by reassuring the country that the IEBC would do everything within its ability to meet its constitutional duties and called for collective responsibility in protecting Kenya’s democracy
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