The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has strongly criticized recent comments made by Wajir Woman Representative Fatuma Abdi Jehow that Members of Parliament in the North Eastern region were going to rig the 2027 General Election for President William Ruto.
In a press statement issued on Sunday, July 13, 2025, the IEBC called Jehow’s remarks “unacceptable and reckless” and added that such remarks are capable of eroding public confidence in Kenya’s electoral process. The Commission asked Kenyans to shun abusive rhetoric that erodes the pillars of democracy.
“The Commission is concerned about statements on election malpractices in the country. Such utterances are unacceptable and reckless in a democratic society such as ours, and IEBC urges all Kenyans to ignore or disassociate with them,” the statement read.
The IEBC cautioned leaders against spreading unfounded allegations that may stoke tension or erode trust in electoral institutions.
Jehow made the inflammatory statement while speaking at a public rally in Wajir on Saturday, boldly declaring, “Even if we don’t have the votes, we will steal them for him.” The video of her statement quickly went viral, drawing sharp criticism from civil society groups, opposition leaders, and concerned citizens across the country.
‘Commission Not in Election Mode Yet’
Against the backdrop of public outcry, the IEBC clarified that the country is not yet in an election period. There is no gazetting and no declaration of the same, hence any evidence of allegations against the malpractice during elections are misplaced and premature.
The Commission declared that it operates within the framework of the law under the Constitution.
As such, it noted that the Electoral Code of Conduct Enforcement Committee will only be established once the official election period begins, in accordance with constitutional guidelines and a Supreme Court ruling on jurisdiction.
“While IEBC will constitute the Electoral Code of Conduct Enforcement Committee as prescribed under Article 84 of the Constitution of Kenya, 2010, read together with Section 110 of the Elections Act, the Committee has jurisdiction only during the election period in accordance with judgment of Hon. Sabina Chege Supreme Court petition No. 23 (E026) of 2022.”
“It should be noted that the IEBC has not declared any elections. Further, there is no gazettement or declaration that has been made to warrant such desirous political utterances and propaganda. The country is not on a campaign period at the moment.”
IEBC Reassures Kenyans of Fair 2027 Polls
IEBC Chairman assured Kenyans that the Commission is now fully constituted and ready to begin meaningful engagements with stakeholders including political leaders, civil society, and the public to rebuild and strengthen trust in the country’s electoral process.
The Commission at the same time urged all political figures to act responsibly and avoid making reckless statements that could undermine public confidence in Kenya’s democratic institutions. The IEBC emphasized that preserving electoral integrity requires collective responsibility, especially from those in leadership.
Reaffirming its commitment to conducting free, fair, and credible elections, the IEBC vowed to maintain its impartiality and independence while carrying out its mandate. It also called upon citizens to utilize only official IEBC sources of information for accurate and up-to-date information regarding the electoral process.
In conclusion, the Commission ensured the public of its commitment towards building a strong, transparent, and credible electoral process that reflects the true will of the Kenyan people.
