The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has raised serious concerns over insufficient funding for the 2027 General Elections. Chairperson Erastus Ethekon warned that the reduction in the proposed election budget could compromise the smooth conduct of the polls.
Despite proposing Ksh61 billion to Parliament, the commission received less, forcing tough decisions on staffing and technology deployment. Experts say a competent electoral team can deliver credible elections using the available resources. Any claims of failure beyond that are blame games.
Reduced Budget Threatens Personnel Deployment
IEBC emphasizes that personnel deployment forms the backbone of credible elections. In the 2022 elections, the commission deployed over 500,000 staff across polling stations and the national tallying centre. According to Ethekon, about 53 per cent of the election budget goes to the deployment of officers.
With reduced funding, the commission may have to cut down the number of personnel, potentially affecting voter management and tallying efficiency. Ethekon noted that fewer officers could increase delays at polling stations and compromise the oversight of the election process.
Election Officers Deployment Breakdown
| Component | 2022 Elections | 2027 Proposed |
|---|---|---|
| Polling Station Officers | 350,000 | Reduced due to budget cuts |
| National Tallying Centre Staff | 150,000 | Reduced deployment expected |
| Support and Logistics | 50,000 | Budget dependent |
- 53 per cent of the election budget is allocated to personnel deployment
- Reduced staffing risks slower voter processing and errors in tallying
- The public may perceive inefficiency if voter turnout is high
Ethekon insists that a well-managed team can still maintain credibility despite the constraints. The commission urges Parliament and stakeholders to recognize that technology and careful planning can compensate for some funding shortfalls.
Technology Dependence and Funding Gaps
The 2027 elections will heavily rely on technology, including the Kenya Integrated Elections Management System (KIEMS). The system integrates Biometric Voter Registration (BVR), Electronic Voter Identification (EVID), and the Electronic Results Transmission System (ERTS).
Ethekon warns that underfunding could limit the effectiveness of KIEMS, affecting voter verification and results transmission. Previous electoral kits from 2013 and 2017 have become obsolete, requiring replacement with advanced technology. Budget constraints may delay procurement or limit the number of operational kits.
- KIEMS ensures faster voter identification and reduces manual errors
- Reduced funds may affect the number of functional kits deployed
- Technology gaps could create unnecessary delays but not invalidate the process
Despite these challenges, IEBC maintains that strategic use of available resources can ensure a credible election. Chairperson Ethekon emphasized that public confidence depends on the efficient use of current resources rather than seeking excuses.
Legal Changes and Public Confidence
Another challenge highlighted by Ethekon is the shift of prosecutorial powers from IEBC to the Office of the Directorate of Public Prosecution (ODPP). Previously, IEBC could prosecute electoral offenders directly, enforcing accountability efficiently.
- Under the new Election Offenses Act, ODPP handles electoral cases
- Most cases remain unsolved, risking public perception of impunity
- Voter confidence may decline if accountability is delayed
Ethekon stressed that these legal changes place IEBC at a disadvantage but should not serve as a scapegoat for operational challenges. He urged stakeholders to focus on resource optimization and strict adherence to electoral procedures.
Continuous Voter Registration and Preparations
IEBC has already commenced preparations for the 2027 General Elections. Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) is ongoing to ensure eligible Kenyans can participate. Voter registration is temporarily halted in areas preparing for by-elections set for November 27.
Citizens are encouraged to register at their nearest IEBC offices to guarantee participation. Ethekon believes that effective use of the personnel and technology at hand will ensure smooth voter registration and polling day processes.
- CVR ensures maximum voter participation ahead of elections
- Registration halts in by-election areas to avoid duplication
- Commission relies on both trained officers and technology to manage large volumes.
