Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka has called on the Kenyan government to expedite the reconstitution of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), a move he termed as crucial for the country’s democratic integrity. Kalonzo voiced his concerns at a multi-sectoral forum focusing on the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in elections, emphasizing that the delay in the IEBC reconstitution was not only unnecessary but could also be part of a calculated scheme to benefit narrow and selfish political interests, particularly ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“The reconstitution of the IEBC should not be delayed any further. This is critical for the country’s democratic integrity,” Kalonzo stated, highlighting that any further delay could undermine public trust in the electoral process. He urged those allegedly hindering the process to prioritize the common good and the nation’s well-being over personal or political agendas.
Kalonzo’s remarks were timely, as there have been increasing calls from various political and civil society groups for the government to act swiftly in addressing the vacancies at the IEBC, a body that plays a pivotal role in ensuring free, fair, and credible elections in Kenya. In the past, issues related to the IEBC’s credibility and performance have led to contentious elections, with the aftermath often marked by public dissatisfaction and political instability. As the 2027 elections draw closer, there is a growing sense of urgency to have the electoral body reconstituted to avoid a repeat of past controversies.
The reconstitution of the IEBC is viewed as a matter of national importance, as it sets the stage for overseeing crucial elections and establishing public confidence in the electoral process. Kalonzo argued that allowing the IEBC to function at full capacity was vital for the smooth and transparent management of future elections. He also underscored the importance of using technology, particularly artificial intelligence, to improve the credibility and transparency of the electoral process.
Kalonzo urged the IEBC to conduct comprehensive voter education on the technologies and digital platforms it intends to use during elections, to ensure the public has a clear understanding of how they work and their role in promoting transparency. This, he argued, would foster greater public confidence in the electoral process. The integration of AI in elections is becoming increasingly popular globally, with many countries turning to advanced technology to enhance the efficiency and transparency of their electoral systems. In Kenya, AI could be instrumental in areas such as data management, voter registration, and election results transmission.
At the same forum, U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires David Gosney voiced his support for Kalonzo’s call, emphasizing the importance of a fully functional and independent IEBC in safeguarding Kenya’s democracy. Gosney’s remarks underscored the international community’s concern about the credibility of Kenya’s elections and its impact on governance and the rule of law.
Kalonzo also weighed in on the ongoing discussions in the Senate regarding proposed amendments that could disrupt the live streaming of election results. The Wiper leader warned that any moves to limit the transparency of the election process would erode public trust and potentially return the country to an era of opacity and distrust in electoral outcomes. Live streaming of results is seen as an important tool in enhancing transparency and allowing Kenyans to track the progress of elections in real time.
The forum, which attracted a broad range of stakeholders, including key government officials, also featured ICT Cabinet Secretary Eliud Owalo. Owalo reiterated the government’s commitment to adopting innovative solutions, such as AI, to enhance the efficiency and credibility of Kenya’s electoral processes. He emphasized the transformative role AI could play in election campaigns, data management, and ensuring the integrity of the electoral process.
As the debate over the IEBC’s reconstitution continues, Kalonzo’s calls for urgency and prioritization of the national good have sparked renewed discussions about the future of Kenya’s democracy. With just a few years until the 2027 elections, the clock is ticking, and stakeholders across the political spectrum will need to work together to ensure the integrity and transparency of Kenya’s electoral processes. The question remains: will the government heed Kalonzo’s call and deliver on the reconstitution of the IEBC in a timely manner, or will delays continue to hinder the nation’s democratic progress? Only time will tell.
