IEBC Slams ‘Rigging’ Talk, Warns Politicians Over Reckless 2027 Election Claims

IEBC Slams ‘Rigging’ Talk, Warns Politicians Over Reckless 2027 Election Claims

The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has issued a fiery rebuke over recent rigging allegations ahead of the 2027 General Election. The commission described recent comments by political leaders as “reckless, unacceptable, and dangerous” to Kenya’s democratic processes.

On Sunday evening, July 13, IEBC broke its silence following a storm created by Wajir Woman Representative Fatuma Abdi Jehow, who had earlier claimed that lawmakers from North Eastern were ready to rig the 2027 presidential polls in favour of President William Ruto.https://dailymirror.co.ke/cj-martha-koome-urges-new-iebc-team-to-act-fast-ahead-of-2027-elections/

“The Commission is concerned about statements on election malpractices in the country,” read the IEBC statement in part.
“Such utterances are unacceptable and reckless in a democratic society such as ours. IEBC urges all Kenyans to ignore or disassociate with them.”

Jehow made the explosive claims during her homecoming rally on Saturday, July 12, while addressing supporters. Her exact words, caught on camera, sparked outrage.

“Sisi wabunge wa North Eastern maneno ya President, tunasema ‘tutam’, hata kama hatutakuwa na votes tutamwibia… hio si siri,” Jehow told the crowd.
Translation: “We, MPs from North Eastern, support the President. Even if we don’t have the votes, we’ll steal them for him… that’s no secret.”

Her declaration triggered a public uproar and lit up social media. Civil society actors, citizens, and politicians condemned her remarks as a threat to free and fair elections.

Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna led the charge, demanding swift action:

“This is not a joke. The IEBC must act immediately and summon Fatuma Jehow. Such talk cannot go unpunished,” Sifuna stated on X (formerly Twitter).

In its strongly worded statement, IEBC distanced itself from any pre-election activities. The commission made it clear that no elections have been declared or gazetted for 2027.

“It should be noted that the IEBC has not declared any elections,” the commission noted.
“Further, there is no gazettement or declaration that has been made to warrant such desirous political utterances and propaganda.”

To back its stand, IEBC referred to a 2023 Supreme Court ruling related to former Murang’a Woman Representative Sabina Chege, who had claimed rigging in the 2017 election. At that time, the court ruled that IEBC could only take disciplinary action within an official election period after nominations and gazettement.

“While the IEBC has the power to enforce the Electoral Code, it can only do so during the official election period,” the statement clarified.

The commission reassured the public that it remains firm in upholding electoral integrity.

“IEBC remains committed to delivering free, fair, and credible elections.”

This statement also comes just two days after the swearing-in of new Chairperson Erastus Ethekon and six other commissioners. The new team is expected to handle six pending parliamentary by-elections, one Senate seat, and 15 MCA seats.

Political analysts warn that such inflammatory remarks, if left unchecked, could undermine public confidence in future elections.

“These kinds of statements are toxic. They plant seeds of doubt before the race even begins,” said analyst Pauline Okumu.

The IEBC’s firm stand sends a message: reckless political talk will not go unchallenged.

ALSO READ: New IEBC Team Under Fire to Deliver Fast By-Elections, Redraw Boundaries Amid Tight Legal Timelines

IEBC Slams ‘Rigging’ Talk, Warns Politicians Over Reckless 2027 Election Claims