The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has warned Kenyans against taking photos or recording videos inside polling booths

during elections, saying offenders risk a fine of up to KSh 1 million, imprisonment for up to three years, or both.
In a public notice shared online, the commission stressed that the secrecy and sanctity of the vote must be protected at all times.
“Photography and Video Recording is strictly PROHIBITED in the POLLING BOOTH,” the notice read.
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The IEBC has cautioned Kenyans against taking photos or recording videos inside polling booths// X

Law Behind the Ban Explained

The electoral body cited Section 7(3)(e) of the Election Offences Act No. 37 of 2016, which states that any person attending election proceedings who captures an image of a marked ballot without lawful excuse commits an offence, especially if it is done for financial gain or to show allegiance to a candidate or political party.
According to the law, offenders are liable to:
  • A fine not exceeding KSh 1 million.
  • Imprisonment for a term not exceeding three years
  • Or both penalties
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Kenyans React With Humour Online

The notice quickly sparked reactions online, with many Kenyans responding humorously while others questioned the timing and enforcement of the directive.
One user joked:
“3yrs in jail.unajua izo ni miezi ngapi bila kupika na kulipa rent 🥲😅😅”
Another wrote:
“Acha ntafute one million mapema 🙌🙌🙌😂”
Others appeared skeptical about the move, with one comment reading:
“Ndio muibe sindio?? 😂 Everyone should take a picture, then someone should be outside the polling station recording the votes manually.”
Another user added:

“Wameanza tumambo 😅”

Ray-Ban Meta Glasses Mentioned in Debate

The mention of smart glasses also dominated the discussion, with several users referencing Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses as a possible loophole.
“Ray-Ban Meta glasses are very nice😂😂😂,” one user commented, while another added:
“hawajui kuna ray band glasses 😂”
Others joked about borrowing the devices ahead of elections, with one user saying:
“Watu mko na rayban meta glasses kazi kwenu😂😂”
Another commented:
“@_andrewtrevor hapa tunadai hizo meta glasses zako 😂😂🙌”

Related Story on Political Symbols at Polling Stations

The warning comes months after the IEBC also reminded Kenyans that no person would be allowed inside a polling station while wearing clothing, badges, symbols, or items showing support for a political party or candidate.