The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) today participated in a Multi-Agency Engagement Forum on Peaceful 2027 General Elections, convened by the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) in partnership with the Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC) and the Political Parties Liaison Committee (PPLC) in Nairobi.
Representing IEBC Chairperson Erastus Edung Ethekon, the Commission’s Deputy Commission Secretary (Support Services), Mr. Obadiah Keitany, joined representatives from key institutions and stakeholders in deliberations aimed at strengthening peaceful electoral processes, promoting political decency, safeguarding human rights and enhancing national cohesion ahead of the 2027 General Election.
The forum provided an important platform for stakeholders to examine emerging electoral risks, strengthen early warning and response mechanisms, promote accountability among electoral actors, and explore practical measures to prevent electoral violence. Discussions also focused on the proposed Political Decency, Peace and Accountability Charter for Political Parties as a framework for encouraging responsible political conduct and peaceful democratic competition.
The IEBC reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with political parties, security agencies, civil society organizations, the media and other stakeholders to create an environment that supports peaceful, inclusive, free, fair and credible elections.
Mr. Keitany called on political parties and aspirants to embrace issue-based campaigns, respect democratic competition and uphold the principles of responsible leadership. He cautioned against hate speech, incitement, intimidation and violence, emphasizing that political differences must be addressed through lawful, peaceful and constructive engagement.
He further underscored the critical role of responsible media reporting, respect for human rights and constructive dialogue among political actors in fostering public confidence and protecting the integrity of the electoral process.
Emphasizing that peace is a shared responsibility, Mr. Keitany urged all stakeholders to move beyond declarations of commitment and translate their pledges into tangible action. He highlighted the importance of stronger institutional collaboration, timely identification of potential electoral risks and accountability in preventing conflict and sustaining peaceful democratic participation.
A key highlight of the engagement was Mr. Keitany’s witnessing of the signing of the Political Decency, Peace and Accountability Charter for Political Parties by the Political Parties Liaison Committee (PPLC) and the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC). The initiative underscores the importance of collective commitment to political responsibility, peaceful competition and national unity as the country prepares for the 2027 General Election.
As Kenya moves closer to the next electoral cycle, the IEBC continues to emphasize that credible elections require more than effective electoral administration. They also depend on responsible political leadership, respect for democratic principles, protection of human rights and the collective determination of all stakeholders to preserve peace.
Through sustained partnerships and proactive engagement, the Commission remains committed to supporting an electoral environment in which political competition is guided by ideas rather than hostility, differences are resolved peacefully, and the will of the people is expressed freely and democratically.
Peaceful elections are a shared national responsibility. Every institution, political actor and citizen has a role to play in safeguarding democracy, strengthening national cohesion and securing a peaceful electoral future for Kenya.
