Uchaguzi Platform calls for fairness in IEBC commissioner appointments

A consortium of non-state organisations working to ensure free and fair electoral processes in the country on Friday piled fresh pressure on the newly sworn-in panel of the electoral agency to uphold integrity in their duties.

The lobbying groups, under the banner of the "Uchaguzi Platform", have called on the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) selection panel to maintain transparency and fairness in the recruitment of new commissioners. They also highlighted key electoral issues requiring urgent attention ahead of the next general election.

Led by Sheila Masinde (Transparency International), Phelix Owuor Odhiambo (Electoral Law and Governance Institute of Africa), Mulle Musau (Election Observer Group) and Franklin Mukwanja (Centre for Multiparty Democracy), the organisations warned that failure by the electoral agency and Parliament to adhere to election timelines could plunge the country into uncertainty.

They urged the selection panel to expedite the recruitment process to ensure it is completed within the set deadlines.

"The panel must carry out its mandate with independence, impartiality, transparency, and inclusivity at every stage of the process. This will enhance public confidence and increase acceptance of the outcome," said Odhiambo.

The lobby group further called on politicians to allow the panel to work without interference, emphasising that all legal matters related to the recruitment should be resolved swiftly to prevent delays.

While the appointment of the selection panel marks progress, civil society groups highlighted pressing issues that will require immediate attention from the new commissioners.

In their view, there is an urgent need to conduct pending by-elections in constituencies and wards that remain without representation.

The new commissioners will also be responsible for overseeing constituency boundary reviews and auditing the voter register ahead of the 2027 elections.

The group also raised concerns regarding the issuance of national identification cards. According to their observations, the process has improved for Kenyans who have turned 18, particularly for Form Four students who are now promptly registered for IDs.

However, they urged the National Registration Bureau to establish an expedited process for ID issuance, with clear timelines and simplified procedures.

"County governments, in collaboration with the national government administration, should initiate regular mobile ID registration drives targeting learning institutions and youth centres," said Masinde.

They also called on Parliament to fast-track the Election Campaign Financing Bill, which would introduce clear regulations ahead of the 2027 campaigns.

"Parliament must act swiftly to finalise pending electoral legislation, such as the Election Campaign Financing (ECF) Bill. This will help regulate campaign financing, curb the use of illicit funds in elections, and prevent the misuse of public resources," added Masinde.

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