IEBC warns politicians linked to violence, goons risk disqualification in 2027 elections

Any political leader linked to goons or other forms of political violence could be disqualified from contesting in the 2027 General Election.

The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has warned that it would closely scrutinise candidates accused of promoting violence, hate speech and divisive politics ahead of the polls.

The warning came during the unveiling of the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) roadmap for a violence-free 2027 General Election.

IEBC Chairperson Erastus Ethekon said the commission would not clear individuals found to have violated election laws or engaged in conduct that threatens peaceful elections.

“We will ensure that those who do not meet the requirements of the law, including those involved in hate speech, violence and other forms of conduct that threaten peaceful elections, are not allowed to contest," Ethekon stated. 

The National Police Service (NPS) also pledged to work with the electoral commission by identifying individuals whose conduct could make them unsuitable for elective office.

“We will recommend to the IEBC individuals who are not fit to run for office based on their track records," Deputy Inspector General of Police Gilbert Masengeli stated.

The police said they would use surveillance and other security measures to identify individuals whose activities could threaten peaceful elections.

They also pledged to step up crime prevention and make arrests targeting those involved in politically instigated violence.

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen said the government would take action against goons and those accused of sponsoring political violence.

“We will deal with goons and their sponsors, and we want to see how the courts will deal with those we arrested in Homa Bay," the CS noted. 

Murkomen added that the IEBC had a constitutional mandate to deliver credible and peaceful elections, pointing out that security agencies would play their part in maintaining law and order.

Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi also warned political leaders against intolerance, hate speech, ethnic contempt, disinformation and divisive rhetoric, saying careless statements could deepen divisions in the country.

"A Kenyan cannot be your enemy simply because they support another candidate. Campaign posters will come down, but we will remain Kenyans," he remarked.

The NCIC said efforts to prevent electoral violence must begin long before election day, calling on security agencies to identify potential hotspots and respond early to emerging sources of conflict.