NAIROBI, Kenya— Deputy Chief Justice Philomena Mwilu has cautioned the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) against bias and unprofessional conduct as Kenya prepares for the 2027 General Election, saying the credibility of the country’s democratic process depends on the commission’s impartiality.
Speaking on Thursday during the launch of the 2022 IEBC Pre-Election Dispute Resolution Committee Report and Case Digest in Nairobi, Mwilu underscored the importance of electoral justice in safeguarding constitutional democracy.
She warned that any perception of bias or failure by the electoral commission to uphold fairness could undermine public confidence in the electoral process.
The Deputy Chief Justice urged the IEBC to discharge its constitutional mandate independently, fairly and professionally before, during and after the 2027 General Election.
Her remarks come as preparations for the next General Election gather momentum, with institutions involved in electoral management and dispute resolution strengthening frameworks aimed at ensuring free, fair and credible polls.
IEBC Chairperson Erastus Edung Ethekon assured stakeholders that the commission is committed to delivering a transparent, credible and accountable electoral process throughout the election cycle.
He said the commission would uphold the Constitution and electoral laws while working closely with other institutions to safeguard the integrity of the polls.
Ethekon also appealed to political parties, candidates and their supporters to comply with the legal framework governing elections, saying adherence to the law is essential for peaceful and credible elections.
His remarks follow growing concerns over isolated incidents of alleged voter bribery, violence and intimidation reported during recent by-election campaigns, which have prompted the commission to intensify enforcement of the Electoral Code of Conduct.
The launch of the 2022 IEBC Pre-Election Dispute Resolution Committee Report and Case Digest brought together representatives from the Judiciary, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), the IEBC and other electoral stakeholders to review lessons from the 2022 electoral cycle and strengthen preparations for future elections.
The report documents the commission’s handling of pre-election disputes and is expected to serve as a reference for improving electoral dispute resolution ahead of the 2027 General Election.