Political leaders planning to contest in the 2027 General Election have been put on notice that a history of violence could work against their bids, with police warning that individuals linked to politically driven attacks may be referred to the electoral commission for consideration.
Deputy Inspector General of Police Gilbert Masengeli said the National Police Service will keep a close watch on political activities as the country moves towards the August 10, 2027 election.
He said officers will intervene where politicians, their supporters or other individuals engage in violence, with investigations, arrests and crime prevention forming part of the security response.
Masengeli said the police would also ensure that Kenyans continue to enjoy their political and civil rights, but warned that those freedoms must be exercised within the limits set by the Constitution.
“We will deal with goons firmly and their sponsors. We will recommend to the IEBC those individuals that are not fit to run for office based on their track record of promoting or perpetrating violence in Kenya,” Masengeli said.
The warning places political actors with a record of violence under closer scrutiny as parties and aspirants prepare for the next election.
Masengeli also called on Kenyans to understand the constitutional provisions governing political and social rights, saying freedom does not allow individuals to engage in activities that put national security or the public good at risk.
“As much as you have all the freedom to do whatever you want to do, there are some limits when it comes to a threat to national security. There are some limits when it comes to the threat to the common good of the public,” he said.
He further urged politicians to take responsibility for maintaining peace and security during the electoral period instead of leaving the task entirely to security agencies.
“Observe political and civil rights as we know that public and national security is a calling for all of us,” Masengeli said.
The remarks come as the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) puts in place the requirements and timelines that will guide candidates seeking elective positions in 2027.
The commission has given presidential aspirants until May 24, 2027, to submit the lists of voters required to support their registration.
The lists must contain the names, signatures and identity card or valid passport numbers of at least 2,000 registered voters from a majority of the 47 counties.
“Aspirants vying for President shall deliver to the Commission a list bearing the names, respective signatures, identity card or valid Passport numbers of at least 2,000 voters registered in each of a majority of the counties by 24th May 2027,” the IEBC said.
The commission has scheduled the candidate registration exercise between May 29 and June 11, 2027, depending on the elective position.
Presidential aspirants will be registered between May 29 and June 11, while National Assembly candidates will appear before the commission from May 29 to June 1.
Senate candidates will undergo registration between May 29 and June 2.
The registration of County Woman Representative candidates will run from June 7 to June 11, while those seeking governorships will be processed between June 3 and June 6.
MCA candidates will be registered between June 2 and June 11.
The IEBC said the exercise will only cover candidates who meet the required conditions for nomination.
“During nomination, the Commission shall register eligible and qualified candidates for election,” the IEBC said.