Ethekon acknowledges hurdles ahead of by-elections, vows credible 2027 polls
He reaffirms the commission’s commitment to developing a clear and enforceable framework for political campaigns, as well as delivering a credible 2027 election
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) chairperson Erastus Edung Ethekon has acknowledged the logistical and operational hurdles the commission is facing ahead of impending 22 by-elections across the country and the 2027 General Election.
Speaking during a consultative roundtable meeting with the media on Wednesday at a Nairobi hotel, Ethekon revealed that they are finalising internal issues before releasing the official schedule for the mini-polls, which are set to be held in various wards and constituencies across the country.
The IEBC boss urged Kenyans to be patient on the matter, which he says shall be addressed soon and timelines shared.
“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,” Ethekon said.
“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 added.
Ethekon reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to developing a clear and enforceable framework for political campaigns, as well as delivering a credible 2027 election.
While responding to Tiaty MP William Kamket’s remarks on vote rigging, Ethekon maintained that the elections will be free and fair.
He called on the media to share any possible loopholes with them same that they can fix it on time.
“I don’t think there will be the stealing of votes. It is impossible. If there are loopholes, please point them out as the media,” he urged.
Kamtet recently alleged that he would do everything in his power to ensure President William Ruto is re-elected in 2027 even if it means inflating his votes, a statement that sparked fresh debate over the fairness of the upcoming election.
IEBC has insisted that it will stay focused on its mandate, vowing to streamline the electoral process and uphold integrity ahead of the August 2027 polls.
Speaking at the same forum, Elections and Law Governance Institute for Africa Executive Director Felix Odhiambo noted that the 2027 elections present both significant opportunities and serious risks.
“The opportunity lies in the fact that if we get this election right, Kenya will firmly enter the consolidation phase of its democratic journey. However, if we get it wrong—given the current political environment and early signs—we risk experiencing democratic reversals so profound that we may struggle to recover,” he said.
Odhiambo emphasised that while the primary responsibility of delivering a credible 2027 election lies with the IEBC, it is not a burden that it can or should bear alone, saying every electoral stakeholder must play their part responsibly and constructively.
