Poll Reveals Kenyans’ Mistrust in IEBC Ahead of 2027 Elections
Even before the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) is constituted, a majority of Kenyans doubt its ability to conduct free and fair elections in 2027.
According to a poll released by Infotrak on Monday, December 16, only 26 percent of Kenyans believe the IEBC will oversee credible, transparent elections. In contrast, 54 percent expressed mistrust in the electoral body’s ability to ensure free and fair polls, while 20 percent were unsure.
The mistrust was most pronounced among respondents from Eastern, Central, North Eastern, Nyanza, Western, and Nairobi regions.
“The 26 percent who expressed confidence in the IEBC attributed their belief to its status as an independent body. Additionally, 42 percent cited improved transparency within the commission,” stated Infotrak CEO Angela Ambitho.
Reasons Behind the Skepticism
Respondents who doubted the IEBC’s capability identified four main concerns:
- Lack of transparency.
- Corruption among IEBC officials.
- Irregularities in past elections.
- Perceived lack of independence due to government influence.
The IEBC is yet to be reconstituted following the expiry of the previous commissioners’ terms and ongoing political disagreements over the selection panel.
With no commissioners currently in office, the IEBC remains unable to conduct any elections or by-elections in the country, further fueling public skepticism about its readiness for 2027.
