Ndia MP George Kariuki during a meeting with grassroots leaders at his Gacharu residence in Kirinyaga County on October 29, 2026/ ALICE WAITHERAPolitical leaders have been urged to allow the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) and other government agencies to operate independently and without political pressure as the country prepares for the 2027 General Election.
Ndia MP George Kariuki cautioned political leaders against interfering with constitutional institutions, saying the IEBC should be given room to carry out its mandate in accordance with the law.
Kariuki said the electoral commission was established as an independent constitutional body under Article 88 and should not be subjected to instructions or influence from political actors.
“The IEBC is an independent constitutional body established under Article 88 of our Constitution. It works under no instructions from anyone,” Kariuki said.
His remarks come amid claims by opposition leaders that the electoral body could be influenced by political actors ahead of the 2027 polls, claims that have raised questions about the credibility and independence of the commission.
Kariuki called on those making such claims to provide evidence, saying claims without supporting evidence could create unnecessary suspicion and affect public confidence in the electoral process.
“Those making claims that IEBC is being controlled or directed by the government should provide evidence instead of creating fear and suspicion among Kenyans. The Commission must be allowed to work independently,” he said.
The legislator urged Kenyans to remain patient as the commission undertakes preparations for the next elections, saying all stakeholders had a responsibility to protect the credibility of electoral institutions.
He also called on leaders across the political divide to exercise restraint in their statements and actions, saying political competition should not be allowed to interfere with institutions mandated to manage the country's democratic processes.
Kariuki encouraged the public to seek information from the IEBC and other authorised government agencies instead of relying on unverified reports and political speculation, particularly as political activity ahead of 2027 intensifies.
He said strengthening independent institutions would be critical to ensuring that the next elections are conducted transparently and in accordance with the Constitution and electoral laws.
“Let IEBC do its job and let the law guide the process. Leaders should avoid creating unnecessary tension around elections,” Kariuki said while meeting grassroots leaders in his Gacharu residence in Kirinyaga County.
His remarks come as preparations for the 2027 General Election increasingly dominate political debate, with electoral preparedness, institutional independence and the credibility of the voting process expected to remain key issues in the run-up to the polls.
