Chief Justice Martha Koome has urged the newly sworn-in Chairperson and Commissioners of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to uphold integrity, independence, and fidelity to the Constitution as Kenya looks ahead to the 2027 General Election.
Speaking during the official swearing-in ceremony held at the Supreme Court buildings in Nairobi, Koome reminded the new IEBC team of the immense trust placed upon them by the Kenyan people. The ceremony came after the High Court dismissed a petition challenging the commissioners’ appointments.
Today marks the beginning of a great public duty—one that demands not just competence and courage, but also an unwavering commitment to constitutionalism, impartiality, and the democratic aspirations of the Kenyan people,” Koome said.
Describing the event as more than a procedural formality, Koome said it symbolized the people of Kenya entrusting the Commission with the responsibility to protect one of the country’s most sacred rights: the right to free, fair, and credible elections, as protected under Article 38 of the Constitution.
‘Fix What Is Broken, and Move with Speed’
The Chief Justice reminded the IEBC team that their mandate goes beyond election day operations. She noted that the 2022 General Election left a vacuum within the Commission, stalling by-elections and other constitutional duties. With the institution now reconstituted, Koome called for immediate action.
It is imperative that you move with speed to undertake the critical constitutional and administrative functions that have remained in abeyance, and to begin in earnest and timely preparations for the 2027 General Elections,” she said.
CJ Koome also challenged the new team to confront institutional dysfunction and systemic inefficiencies.
Whatever you will find not working or not serving Kenyans properly at the IEBC—you must confront it and fix it. That is the reason you have been entrusted with this mandate,” she asserted.
Independence Is Not Negotiable
One of the most forceful parts of the CJ’s address was her insistence on the independence and impartiality of the IEBC. She warned against external interference from political forces or other institutions.
May the first prefix of your name, ‘Independent’, always sound a clear tone. Stand firm in your independence, especially if anyone or any institution attempts to interfere.”
She emphasized that every decision the Commission makes must strictly adhere to the Constitution, adding that electoral integrity is a national security matter.
Context of Public Distrust and High Expectations
Koome acknowledged that the IEBC was assuming office at a time of heightened public skepticism and rising demand for transparency.
It is against this backdrop that your mandate acquires even greater significance.”
She urged the commissioners to uphold high standards of professionalism and remain faithful to the principles of efficiency, transparency, and public service.
You must ensure that every decision, every action, every process you preside over strictly adheres to the Constitution,” she stated.
Closing Call for Democratic Stewardship
In her final remarks, CJ Koome stressed that laws and institutions alone cannot uphold democracy—it must also be grounded in public trust and active citizen participation.
May you also serve Kenyans with grace and honor,” she concluded.
The newly appointed team now faces the uphill task of restoring public confidence in the electoral process, implementing critical reforms, and ensuring that the country is prepared for the 2027 General Election in accordance with constitutional timelines.
