NAIROBI, Kenya — A group of foreign envoys has called on Kenya’s National Assembly and National Treasury to ensure the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) receives timely and adequate funding ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a joint statement released Monday, ambassadors and high commissioners from 15 countries said adequate financial support is essential for the IEBC’s effective and independent operation.
They also urged state institutions to take immediate steps to guarantee inclusive voter registration.
“We encourage 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,” the envoys said. “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.”
A joint statement from the UK and members of the international community on the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC).
The statement reflects growing international concern about Kenya’s electoral readiness following the appointment of a new IEBC chairperson and commissioners.
The diplomats emphasized their readiness to work in partnership with Kenyan institutions to strengthen electoral systems and build public trust in democratic processes.
This latest message follows mounting pressure from civil society groups for the government to expedite funding for the IEBC, which is already tasked with major electoral reforms following the chaotic 2022 election aftermath and prolonged legal battles over presidential results.
The IEBC is expected to launch a nationwide voter registration campaign later this year, but concerns persist over budget delays, legal uncertainty, and lingering political interference — factors that previously hampered the commission’s performance.
The joint message was signed by representatives from the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, the Netherlands, Canada, Australia, Ireland, Switzerland, Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Finland, and others.
