Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has announced plans to reach out to former U.S. President Donald Trump and other world leaders, urging them to apply pressure on Kenya to establish the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC).
Gachagua claims there is a “deliberate plot” to sabotage the integrity of the upcoming 2027 General Elections.
” If you look at what MPs and Ruto’s people are saying, there’s a need for Kenyans to be alarmed by the lack of an Electoral Body in Place… Some are claiming they can extend his presidential term and others are speaking of amending the constitution. We appeal to the International Community and U.S President Donald Trump to Pressure President Ruto to reconstitute the IEBC” Gachagua added.
Gachagua’s alarming intervention comes as Kenya stands on the precipice of crucial electoral timelines, with the next General Election scheduled for August 9, 2027.
According to the Constitution, the electoral process requires significant preparations, including the establishment of an independent body to oversee free and fair elections.
The urgency is compounded by the need for substantive public engagement, the finalization of voter registration, and the creation of a conducive environment for campaigning.
Skipping these established timelines is not merely a bureaucratic issue; it poses a significant threat to Kenya’s democratic processes.
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has reiterated the urgent need for the reconstitution of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) as delays continue to hinder the boundary review process and pending by-elections across the country.
During a recent session, Wetang’ula expressed his frustration over the stalled activities and urged lawmakers to prioritize the matter to ensure a functional electoral body.
“The House must take decisive action to avoid further delays in critical electoral functions. Those obstructing this process should reconsider their positions and allow for progress,” Wetang’ula stated emphatically.
The Speaker’s comments come in the wake of growing concerns from various stakeholders regarding the delays caused by ongoing court cases related to the IEBC. In a pointed appeal, Wetang’ula urged Chief Justice Martha Koome to expedite these cases in order to prevent additional disruptions to the electoral processes.
Adding to the discourse, Government Spokesperson Dr. Isaac Mwaura said the impasse was due to a case involving a candidate suggested by Azimio. Not the Government.
“It is the government’s commitment to establish a functional electoral body that can effectively oversee by-elections and other mandates,”
President William Ruto has steered clear of the issue, leaving many to question his stance on the electoral process.
As the country gears up for what promises to be a contentious election cycle, all eyes will be on the efforts to strengthen the integrity of IEBC and uphold democratic values in Kenya.
The clock is ticking, and the implications of neglecting these timelines could reverberate far beyond the political arena, affecting the very fabric of Kenyan society.
