Editor's Review

IEBC explained why two of its Commissioners were in New York, the United States of America.

The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has explained why two members of the Commission are in the United States of America.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, September 23, IEBC explained that Vice Chairperson Fahima Abdallah and Commissioner Alutalala Mukhwana were on an engagement forum with Kenyans in the Diaspora.

The Commission added that the discussions in New York centred around the strengthening of electoral participation and inclusion ahead of the 2027 General Election.

"Commissioner Alutalala said that IEBC will enhance sustained engagement and open dialogue with stakeholders to ensure that Kenyans living abroad have access to timely and accurate electoral information and services throughout the electoral cycle," the statement read.

IEBC added that Alutalala emphasised to Kenyans living in the diaspora that the Commission will continue working towards the progressive realisation of the right of Kenyans abroad to participate in the electoral process.

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IEBC Vice Chairperson Fahima Abdallah (Seated second from left) and Commissioner Alutalala Mukhwana (seated far left) during an engagement forum with Kenyans in Diaspora in New York.

"He noted that countries with significant Kenyan populations will be considered as the Commission explores opportunities to progressively expand access to electoral services.

"Alutalala underpinned that the Commission is leveraging technology and innovation to enhance the voter experience for Kenyans in the diaspora while exploring ways to expand access to electoral services beyond the current arrangements, particularly in countries with significant populations of Kenyan voters," IEBC stated.

The Commissioner reiterated its commitment to make electoral services more accessible, efficient, accurate, and responsive to the needs of every eligible Kenyan, wherever they are.

The clarification came amid questions over Alutalala and Abdallah's presence in New York, where President William Ruto is currently attending the United Nations General Assembly.

Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, Mining CS Hassan Joho, ICT CS William Kabogo and other senior government officials accompanied the Head of State.

Earlier, DCP Rigathi Gachagua had alleged that there was a new plot to manipulate the elections which involved President Ruto, CS Joho and Commissioner Abdallah

In response, IEBC Chair Erastus Ethekon warned leaders against spreading narratives that undermine the Commission's ability to conduct free and fair elections in 2027, especially without presenting facts.