Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) Chairperson Erastus Ethekon has warned that Kenya cannot conduct free, fair and credible elections in an environment characterised by hate speech, political violence and ethnic incitement.
Speaking during the launch of a multi-agency steering committee on election-related violence and hate speech, Ethekon said a peaceful political climate is essential for the successful conduct of the 2027 General Election.
He cautioned that persistent inflammatory rhetoric and divisive politics could erode public confidence in the electoral process and undermine democratic institutions.
“We cannot deliver credible elections in an atmosphere dominated by violence, incitement, division and lawlessness,” Ethekon said.
Political parties urged to curb incitement
The IEBC chair called on political parties to take responsibility for the conduct of their members and supporters, urging leaders to discourage statements that fuel hostility or ethnic divisions.
He warned against glorifying individuals who promote hate and violence, saying such behaviour poses a serious threat to national unity and democratic governance.
Ethekon stressed that maintaining peace before, during and after elections is a shared responsibility among political actors, institutions and citizens.
Agencies unite against election offences
The remarks came as the IEBC joined the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC), the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties (ORPP) in launching a joint committee to tackle hate speech, political intolerance and election-related violence.
The committee will coordinate intelligence sharing, investigations and enforcement of electoral laws as preparations for the 2027 polls gather momentum.
Authorities said individuals found promoting ethnic incitement, violence or hate speech could face prosecution under existing laws.
Candidates risk disqualification
Officials involved in the initiative warned that politicians who violate electoral laws may also be barred from contesting future elections.
They said compliance with legal and ethical standards will be closely monitored, adding that candidates found culpable of serious electoral offences could be disqualified before the next General Election.
The agencies reiterated that accountability would apply equally to all political players regardless of affiliation.
Public urged to report electoral offences
Ethekon also encouraged Kenyans to formally report incidents such as voter bribery, intimidation and other electoral offences through the appropriate legal channels rather than relying solely on social media discussions.
He said the commission can only investigate complaints supported by credible evidence submitted through established procedures.
The IEBC chair maintained that public cooperation will be essential in safeguarding the integrity of the electoral process as Kenya moves closer to the 2027 General Election.
