KENYA URGED TO SAFEGUARD DEMOCRATIC INTEGRITY AHEAD OF 2027 POLLS.

BY JUDITH MWAI 

Kenya must urgently strengthen democratic safeguards to protect the credibility of its 2027 General Election, experts have warned. Speaking at the University of Pretoria’s Centre for Human Rights, specialists emphasized that accountability, freedom of expression, and access to information are essential pillars for maintaining public trust in the country’s electoral process.

The experts raised concern over practices that have previously undermined elections in the region, including internet disruptions during voting periods and political interference in the appointment of electoral commission officials. Aboneka, addressing participants at the forum, cautioned that such actions erode public confidence and weaken citizens’ faith in democratic institutions.

“Stealing an election is a direct assault on democracy,” Aboneka said, stressing that Kenyans must be allowed to participate freely in the electoral process. 

He added that voters should be able to express their will without fear of violence, repression, or manipulation, warning that restrictions on information flow during elections could significantly compromise transparency.

Participants at the Centre for Human Rights agreed that safeguarding Kenya’s democratic gains requires early preventive measures rather than last-minute interventions. They underscored the importance of strong, independent institutions capable of resisting political pressure and ensuring impartial election management.

The experts also highlighted the critical role of a vigilant civil society and independent media in promoting accountability and defending fundamental freedoms. They noted that sustained civic engagement and respect for human rights will be key to ensuring that the 2027 General Election reflects the genuine will of the Kenyan people.