Wetang’ula warns politicians against interfering with new IEBC team

National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has called on politicians to refrain from making statements he says could compromise the operations of the newly reconstituted Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC).

Speaking on Sunday in Bungoma County, Wetang’ula urged the political class to respect the independence of the IEBC and stop interfering in its mandate.

"Politicians, especially some of the younger leaders, must avoid making reckless and prejudicial statements that could undermine the autonomy of the commission," he said while addressing congregants at St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Kanduyi.

He said IEBC is a constitutionally independent institution that should operate free from political influence.

"The commission does not take instructions from anyone, regardless of status or position, not even the President can direct the IEBC on how to execute its duties," Wetang’ula stated.

"Politicians should desist from using public platforms to issue directives to the IEBC. Let the commission do its work independently".

The Speaker stressed the importance of giving the IEBC the necessary space and support to build public trust as it sets in motion preparations for its upcoming responsibilities, including overseeing by-elections in various constituencies and wards, as well as conducting a nationwide voter registration drive among others.

He noted that Kenyans had long awaited the reconstitution of the electoral body and now had high expectations of the newly sworn-in team.

Wetang’ula also noted that the National Assembly is prepared to fast-track the approval of the supplementary budget to allocate funds for the voter registration process.

"The National Assembly is awaiting the tabling of the supplementary budget, which contains allocations for the voter registration exercise. Once presented, Members of Parliament will expedite its passage to facilitate this critical national exercise," he said.

He urged residents to participate actively in the upcoming voter registration drive.