Erastus Ethekon says IEBC to seek guidance from AG on early campaigning rules
Erastus Ethekon said the commission is concerned about rising political activity and aims to define clear campaign timelines to ensure fairness and order in the electoral process.
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) will seek guidance from the Attorney General, Dorcas Oduor, on what qualifies as early campaigning ahead of the 2027 General Election, Chairperson Erastus Ethekon has announced.
Speaking in Nairobi on Wednesday, Ethekon said the commission is concerned about rising political activity and aims to define clear campaign timelines to ensure fairness and order in the electoral process.
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“In Kenya, every day, every hour feels like an election campaign. When someone goes to a funeral, they talk about elections, does that mean it is a campaign?” he posed.
He noted that the lines are increasingly blurred, making it difficult to determine when election campaigns begin.
“What IEBC can do is talk with the Attorney General on campaigns and define it, including what the timelines are. It is an area of concern and a matter we need to keep in mind,” Ethekon added.
The IEBC boss also addressed pending by-elections, assuring the public that a schedule will be released once the commission finalises internal processes.
“On the issue of timelines for the by-elections, we will be announcing the schedule once the operations committee gives all the information. Then we will communicate the details. Be patient—we will address the timelines,” he said.
Ethekon acknowledged the logistical and operational hurdles the commission is currently facing but maintained that they are working tirelessly to ensure smooth planning for all electoral events.
“There were some things that were out of our control, but we are working around the clock to execute all these activities as those who have been charged with the responsibility to take charge of the elections,” he stated.
He reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to developing a clear and enforceable framework for political campaigns, as well as delivering a credible 2027 election.
Ethekon also responded to recent concerns over the possibility of vote-rigging, maintaining that the upcoming general election will be free and fair. “I don’t think there will be the stealing of votes. It is impossible!” he said.
He urged the media and the public to report any suspected gaps in the electoral process. “If there are loopholes, please point them out as the media,” he added.
His remarks came just days after Tiaty MP William Kamket declared he would do everything in his power to ensure President William Ruto is re-elected in 2027, a statement that sparked fresh debate over the fairness of the upcoming election.
Despite the heightened political rhetoric, Ethekon insisted the commission will stay focused on its mandate, vowing to streamline the electoral process and uphold integrity ahead of the August 2027 polls.
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