Renowned activist and lawyer Saitabao ole Kanchory has set out what he says are firm conditions that must be met for the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to conduct a credible general election in 2027, warning that failure to act will further erode public trust.
In a statement shared on X on January 10, 2026, Kanchory outlined five reforms he described as mandatory, saying the commission cannot deliver a free and fair poll unless deep changes are made within its leadership, systems and operations.
At the centre of his demands is a complete shake-up of the IEBC secretariat, with Kanchory calling for the removal of senior officials whom he accused of undermining confidence in the electoral body.
“For @IEBCKenya to have any chance of delivering a free, fair and credible election in 2027, we MUST: 1. Overhaul and replace the Secretariat. Marjan Hussein, Marjan and his team MUST GO,” he said.
He further called for action against returning officers accused of wrongdoing in past elections, arguing that accountability within election management has been weak for years.
“Fire returning officers found to have committed any electoral malpractices in any previous election,” Kanchory added.
His remarks come at a time when the IEBC continues to face criticism over its independence, with sections of the public and political actors questioning its internal controls following disputes linked to previous electoral cycles.
Kanchory also raised concerns about election technology and procurement, calling for the immediate termination of contracts with firms linked to past polls. He singled out Smartmatic, a Venezuelan firm previously involved in election systems.
“Immediately get rid of the discredited Venezuelan Co. Smartmatic and ensure we have a tamper-proof system from a credible technology firm procured openly and transparently with proper public participation,” he said.
He also demanded the removal of Inform Lykos, a Greek firm that has previously handled the printing of ballot papers and other election materials.
“Replace (w.i.e) the Greek firm Inform Lykos, which used to print ballot papers and other election materials,” Kanchory stated.
The activist said procurement around elections must be fully transparent to prevent foreign influence and restore public confidence in the voting process, concerns that have been raised repeatedly by opposition figures in recent years.
Kanchory concluded by urging the public to closely watch the current IEBC leadership, which he described as politically influenced, and to challenge any action that could affect the credibility of future polls.
“5. Keep our eyes wide open and closely monitor Ruto’s handpicked IEBC, watching their every move and challenging any decision or action that could affect the credibility of the elections,” he said.
His comments reflect growing public doubt over the electoral body, as shown in an Infotrak survey released on December 28, 2025, following the November 27, 2025, by-elections. The survey found that only 8 per cent of respondents viewed the polls as very free, fair and credible, while 31 per cent said the elections lacked credibility.
