The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has firmly rejected allegations regarding illegal voter registration, unlawful voter transfers, and the registration of foreign nationals in anticipation of the 2027 General Election, asserting that these claims lack evidence.
In a statement released on Sunday, September 27, IEBC Chairman Erastus Ethekon expressed concern over the persistent dissemination of what he termed misleading and unverified information concerning the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) initiative.
Ethekon highlighted that the CVR is being carried out in all 290 constituencies and cautioned that sensationalized narratives and unfounded accusations could mislead the public and erode trust in the electoral process.
IEBC addresses voter registration concerns
“The allegations regarding electoral misconduct or illegality concerning voter registration, unauthorized voter transfers, and supposed registration of foreign voters, both within and outside Kenya, remain unproven and false,” Ethekon stated.
He noted that no individual, organization, or group has presented credible evidence to the Commission to back these claims. However, he assured that the IEBC would take necessary actions if credible proof of wrongdoing is brought forward, including disciplinary measures, criminal investigations, and potential prosecutions.
The chairman further clarified the Commission’s constitutional role, emphasizing that under Article 88 of the Constitution, its responsibility is to register eligible Kenyan citizens who possess valid national identity cards or passports and to maintain the Register of Voters.
Ethekon pointed out that the IEBC is not involved in the issuance of national identity cards or passports, as these are managed by other State agencies responsible for identification, citizenship, and immigration.
Linking the IEBC to the issuance of these identification documents, he warned, is factually incorrect and could mislead the public regarding the functions of various State institutions.
The Commission reiterated that voter registration is a regulated process conducted in accordance with the Constitution and electoral laws. Individuals wishing to register must provide valid identification documents to registration officers at designated centers.
Ethekon also addressed rumors concerning the alleged movement or disappearance of the Kenya Integrated Elections Management System (KIEMS) kits, asserting that the equipment remains securely under the Commission’s custody and control.
Clarification on KIEMS kits
He explained that these kits are specifically configured for use within the authorized electoral framework and can only be activated by designated registration officers. Additionally, registration clerks must undergo training and operate under the supervision of these officers.
According to the IEBC, the KIEMS kits utilized during the Enhanced Continuous Voter Registration exercise from March 30 to April 28, 2026, were secured at designated police stations or IEBC offices before being returned to the Commission’s warehouses post-exercise.
The Commission confirmed that no KIEMS kit has been reported as missing, intercepted, or unlawfully relocated to unauthorized sites or foreign countries.
Ethekon emphasized that the ongoing registration initiative aims to allow eligible Kenyan citizens with valid identification documents to register as voters, and any claims of illegal registration, voter transfers, favoritism, or discrimination must be substantiated with verifiable proof.
Rights of Kenyans living abroad
The IEBC also addressed the rights of Kenyans living abroad, stating that their residency outside the country does not negate their constitutional right to participate in elections.
The Commission noted that diaspora voter registration has grown from a limited number of countries during the 2013 General Election to 12 countries in the 2022 election, with plans to expand this program to 26 countries for the upcoming 2027 General Election through the Enhanced Continuous Voter Registration Phase II.
Ethekon encouraged the public, media, and other stakeholders to report any credible information regarding suspected electoral malpractice to the IEBC or relevant investigative bodies.
He assured that the Commission remains committed to keeping Kenyans informed about its preparations for the 2027 General Election while ensuring a free, fair, transparent, accountable, and verifiable electoral process.
