CJ Koome urges IEBC to disqualify politicians sponsoring goons

Koome, who spoke during the launch of the IEBC Strategic Plan 2024–2029 and the Election Operations Plan 2025–2027, said the electoral body has sufficient powers under the law to deal with the growing culture of political violence in the country.

The launch of the two plans provided a platform for both the Judiciary and the IEBC to weigh in on the increasing cases of goonism and political violence.

Chief Justice Koome called out politicians accused of sponsoring violent groups, saying they had taken the country hostage.

"We have about 2,000 Kenyans who earn their living through politics and they interrupt the lives of 55 million people. The hopes, livelihoods and future of over 55 million people must never be held ransom by the ambitions of a few seeking political office," Koome stated. 

The CJ urged the IEBC to take firm action against politicians found to be fuelling political violence.

"You cannot say your hands are tied. Tied by who? You have the code of conduct. Disqualify the people who defy it. Please don't lie and say your hands are tied. The time for warnings without consequences must come to an end," she noted.

IEBC Chairperson Erastus Ethekon also expressed concerns over the increasingly volatile political environment, warning that it was hampering preparations for the 2027 General Election.

"There is this inclination for politicians to bring in young people armed with sticks to protect their vote from one another. When these groups clash, people die. If the environment in which we conduct elections is intoxicated, we cannot hold an election," Ethekon highlighted.

He further appealed to political leaders to lower political temperatures to allow for peaceful preparations ahead of the polls.

"Let us lower the temperature so that these young people can register and turn up to vote for you." 

Some opposition leaders who attended the event also rejected the two reports launched by the IEBC, arguing that they had not been allowed to provide their input.

"Credibility is not earned through secrecy," stated Democratic Party leader Justin Muturi.

The remarks come as the IEBC announced key dates in the roadmap to the August 10, 2027, General Election.

According to the electoral body, public and State officers intending to contest in the 2027 elections will be required to resign from their positions by February 9, 2027.

Political parties will conduct their nominations between March 17 and April 10, 2027, while the official campaign period will begin on May 29, 2027.