As Kenya prepares for the 2027 General Election, reliable communication networks, effective media coordination and timely access to credible information will be critical to the conduct of a transparent and trusted electoral process.
Today, the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), led by Chairperson Erastus Ethekon, HSC, held an engagement with Mr. Stephen Isaboke, EBS, Principal Secretary in the State Department for Broadcasting and Telecommunications, under the Ministry of Information, Communications and the Digital Economy, alongside his delegation.
The delegation included the Chief Executive Officer of the Media Council of Kenya, the Secretary for Information and Broadcasting, the Secretary for Public Communication and the Director of Public Communications.
The discussions centered on strengthening collaboration between the Commission and key government institutions, with particular attention to media liaison, communication coordination and the assessment of network coverage requirements to support the timely transmission of election results during the 2027 General Election.
At the heart of the engagement was the need to ensure that the communication infrastructure required for election operations is reliable, accessible and capable of supporting the efficient flow of electoral information across the country. Adequate network coverage will be especially important in ensuring that results can be transmitted from polling stations in different parts of Kenya, including areas where connectivity remains a challenge.
Chairperson Ethekon emphasized the Commission’s commitment to ensuring the timely, accurate and verifiable transmission and management of election results in 2027. He underscored the importance of working closely with relevant government agencies and media stakeholders to strengthen the systems and infrastructure that underpin credible elections.
The engagement also highlighted the important role of the media in keeping Kenyans informed throughout the electoral process. Stronger coordination between the IEBC, government communication agencies and media institutions will help promote the timely dissemination of accurate electoral information, address misinformation and enhance public understanding of election processes.
As preparations for the 2027 General Election continue, such partnerships will be essential in identifying communication gaps, addressing infrastructure needs and ensuring that the necessary systems are in place well ahead of election day.
Ultimately, credible elections depend not only on the effective conduct of voting and counting, but also on the reliability of the systems that support the transmission, verification and communication of results. By strengthening collaboration and investing in effective communication infrastructure, the IEBC continues to lay the groundwork for a transparent, accountable and efficient electoral process in 2027.
