Political leaders who use hate speech, ethnic mobilisation or violence to gain support could be barred from contesting the 2027 General Election, IEBC Chairperson Erastus Ethekon has warned, as authorities step up efforts to prevent a repeat of Kenya’s past election-related violence.
Ethekon said leaders who breach the Electoral Code of Conduct should face sanctions, including disqualification, urging politicians and members of the public to report those who violate the rules.
Speaking during the NCIC launch of the ‘Roadmap to a Peaceful General Election 2027’ campaign on Tuesday, Ethekon said the IEBC would work with other state agencies to enforce the code and protect the electoral process.
“We will even disqualify some of them from contesting because why would you clear a leader who is undermining the peace and stability of the country?” he said.
His warning comes amid fresh concerns over political violence after chaos erupted during the Linda Mwananchi rally in Homa Bay County on August 16, leaving two people, including a police officer, dead and dozens injured.
The violence also saw journalists attacked, vehicles torched and property destroyed after groups of youths blocked roads during the political activities. Police later arrested 37 suspects in connection with the clashes.
Ethekon urged political leaders to learn from Kenya’s past, particularly the 2007-08 post-election violence that left more than 1,000 people dead and thousands displaced.
He called on politicians to practise what he described as “political hygiene”, warning them against statements and actions that could divide communities or discourage young people from taking part in elections.
The IEBC chairperson said young people are expected to make up nearly 70% of registered voters once the final voter register is published, making them a key group in the 2027 election.
He criticised political actors who rely on ethnicity, profiling, zoning and hate to build political support, warning that such tactics could further discourage Kenyans from voting.
“We need also to employ the hard power because whatever it takes, we have to secure the country,” Ethekon said, calling for closer cooperation among state agencies to protect the electoral process.
He said the IEBC gazetted the election period on August 19, a move that brought the Electoral Code of Conduct into force.
Ethekon also called on the media to carefully fact-check political claims and avoid spreading rumours and false information, saying responsible reporting would help maintain public trust in the electoral process.
He said the IEBC would continue with preparations for the 2027 polls, including voter registration and civic education, as the country works towards holding “credible, peaceful, free, and fair elections” next year.