IEBC Warns of Rising Goonism and Growing Trust Deficit Ahead of Elections

The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has expressed concern over the prevailing political climate ahead of upcoming elections, warning that rising cases of “goonism,” mistrust, and anxiety among stakeholders could undermine the credibility of the electoral process.

Speaking during an IEBC-Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA) breakfast meeting on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, participants raised alarm over increasing fears of political violence and the growing influence of money in elections.

Stakeholders at the plenary session highlighted what they termed as a growing culture of “goonism,” where politicians allegedly deploy hired groups to influence political outcomes.

Concerns were also raised over vote manipulation through financial inducements, with participants warning that such practices continue to erode public confidence in elections.

KEPSA representative Vimal Shah noted that Kenya is currently facing a serious trust deficit that is affecting both citizens and businesses.

“We are seeing a fear psychosis that is causing widespread concern about the future. There is a need for clarity of rules and a coordinated approach to conflict resolution,” Shah said.

He further called for the formation of a multi-agency task force to address electoral tensions, citing institutional fragmentation as a major challenge.

“The mistrust is too high, and the cost of elections in Kenya remains significantly elevated,” he added.

IEBC Cautions on Limited Mandate Over Violence

In response, IEBC Chairperson Erastus Edung Ethekon acknowledged the concerns but clarified that the commission’s mandate on political violence is limited.

“We have the electoral code of conduct, but it only becomes enforceable once the election period is gazetted and candidates are registered. That is when political actors formally fall under our jurisdiction,” he said.

He emphasized that while IEBC is operationally prepared for elections, the broader environment remains a key concern.

“Operationally, we are fine. What we are worried about is the environment in which we will hold the election. Will it be peaceful?” he posed.

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Concerns Over Attacks and Voter Registration Challenges

Ethekon revealed that some IEBC offices were previously attacked during the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise, stressing the need for public cooperation in safeguarding the electoral process.

“We are offering a service to facilitate Kenyans in exercising their democratic right. It should not be made difficult,” he said.

On voter registration, he confirmed that IEBC has fully transitioned to a biometric system, making older manual registers obsolete.

“When IEBC began in 2012, only fingerprints were captured. The law now requires a comprehensive biometric register, including iris and other identifiers. The previous manual register is no longer valid,” he explained.

He urged eligible voters, especially those registered before the biometric system was introduced, to update their details.

“If you have not joined the new biometric register, you need to come forward and register afresh. We want everyone included,” he said.

Also Read: Police IG Breaks Silence on Deadly Chaos Near Ishiara Level 4 Hospital That Left Two Dead

Warning on AI and Election Result Declaration

Ethekon also addressed the role of technology, including artificial intelligence, in elections, stressing that any innovations must comply with existing legal frameworks.

“Even if we are innovative, we cannot implement systems outside what the law provides,” he stated.

He further cautioned against premature declaration of election results by third parties, emphasizing that only IEBC has the constitutional mandate to declare the winner of the presidential race.

“Results are public, and Kenyans can collate them, but the declaration of the president remains the mandate of the commission,” he said.

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