US, UK, Canada React To Reconstitution Of IEBC

The envoys represented countries that included the United States, Germany, Canada, the Netherlands, Denmark, Ireland, Australia, Switzerland, Norway, Sweden, and Finland.

US, UK, Canada React To Reconstitution Of IEBC
The IEBC national tallying centre at Bomas of Kenya. /BOMAS OF KENYA

A group of foreign diplomats representing major missions in Kenya has voiced its position on the newly constituted Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), presenting several appeals to the Kenyan government.

In a joint statement issued shortly after the swearing-in of six commissioners and Chairperson Erastus Ethekon, the envoys expressed support for the new team and urged the officials to carry out their duties with fairness and neutrality for the benefit of all Kenyans.

"We welcome the appointment of the new Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) chairperson and commissioners," the joint statement read in part.

The envoys represented countries that included the United States, Germany, Canada, the Netherlands, Denmark, Ireland, Australia, Switzerland, Norway, Sweden, and Finland.

The entrance of US Embassy in Gigiri, Nairobi County. /KENYA ASSOCIATION OF TRAVEL AGENTS

"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," added the statement.

The countries expressed confidence that the new commissioners will carry out their mandate with impartiality, transparency, and professionalism in service to all Kenyans.

Looking ahead, the envoys encouraged the National Assembly and National Treasury to provide the IEBC with timely and sufficient budgetary support, which is essential to its effective and independent operation.

"We also urge relevant institutions to take the necessary steps to ensure all eligible citizens can register as voters and participate in the electoral process," added the statement. The diplomats also expressed readiness to work in partnership to further strengthen electoral systems and bolster public trust in Kenya's democratic institutions.

The joint statement from the diplomats comes just weeks after the European Union (EU), through its final report from the European Union Election Follow-up Mission (EU EFM), raised concerns over stalled electoral reforms and questioned the future independence of Kenya’s electoral body from political influence. At that time, the EU assessed the IEBC as weak and susceptible to manipulation by the political class.

With the swearing-in of the new commissioners last Friday, the IEBC now faces mounting pressure as the countdown to the 2027 General Election begins. The commission, led by new Chairperson Erastus Ethekon, must quickly address several constitutional and legal challenges, starting with the urgent task of conducting 22 pending by-elections nationwide.

Ethekon will be supported by commissioners Ann Njeri Nderitu, Moses Alutalala Mukhwana, Mary Karen Sorobit, Hassan Noor Hassan, Francis Odhiambo Aduol, and Vice Chairperson Fahima Araphat Abdallah—all of whom are set to serve for a period of six years.

In addition, the IEBC is expected to resume essential electoral activities, such as Continuous Voter Registration (CVR), to prepare for the next polls.

On the financial front, IEBC Deputy CEO Obadiah Keitany previously disclosed that the commission will require Ksh61 billion to manage the 2027 General Elections. According to the commission’s legal director, while Kenya has the capacity to produce credible election materials locally, political mistrust has forced the agency to outsource ballot papers from foreign contractors—a significantly more expensive option.

Chief Justice Martha Koome flanked by new Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) Chairperson Erastus Ethekon (left) and Attorney General Dorcas Oduor after the swearing in of the newly reconstituted IEBC team. /MARTHA KOOME