NAIROBI, Kenya — Members of Parliament have scored the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) over what they describe as an extravagant budget proposal of Sh 63.9 billion for the 2027 General Election, with a line item of Sh 1.1 billion for meals alone drawing particular skepticism.
Appearing before the Justice and Legal Affairs Committee of the National Assembly on Tuesday, IEBC officials presented their 2027 election budget estimates, outlining major expenditure categories for what they say is a comprehensive plan to fund the electoral process.
Committee members pushed back strongly, saying some of the figures — especially the allocation for meals — appeared excessive and opaque.
In its submission, the IEBC also disclosed other significant projected costs, including Sh 5.9 billion for printing ballot papers, Sh 3 billion for transport, and Sh 4.9 billion for logistics of election materials.
Today, the Commission, led by @IEBCKenya Vice Chairperson Fahima Araphat, OGW, appeared before the Departmental Committee on Justice and Legal Affairs (JLAC) at Bunge Towers to consider the 2026 Budget Policy Statement (BPS).#26thFebByelections | #YourVoteYourFuture |
In addition, Sh 1 billion was earmarked for results transmission, Sh 3.9 billion for systems upgrade, and Sh 6.2 billion to replace Kenya Integrated Election Management System (KIEMS) kits — crucial technology used in voter identification and verification.
The Commission further revealed it requires nearly Sh 776 million for tents and sound systems at polling stations, Sh 560 million for party primaries, and Sh 500 million to audit the voter register, alongside Sh 305 million for bulk SMS services as part of voter communication efforts.
While defending the budget, IEBC officials told MPs these figures reflect expanded operational needs as the electoral body prepares for a larger voter roll and broader logistical footprint than in previous cycles.
However, some lawmakers remained unconvinced about the necessity of the full KSh 63.95 billion request.
A faction of MPs argued that the Sh43 billion already allocated by the Treasury should be sufficient to run the election and pressed IEBC to justify further funding, particularly for off‑beat costs such as meals and communications.
They also directed the commission to present detailed expert reports before approving large expenditures, especially for items like KIEMS kits replacement.
The 2027 General Election is scheduled for 10 August 2027, with preparations underway across government and electoral management bodies.
Parliamentary oversight of the IEBC’s budget will continue as lawmakers scrutinise each component to ensure accountability and value for public funds.
