Editor's Review

Ethekon issued an important update on the transmission and management of election results.

The Chairperson of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), Erastus Ethekon, held engagements with the Broadcasting Principal Secretary (PS), Stephen Isaboke and Media Council of Kenya CEO David Omwoyo.

In a statement issued by IEBC on Tuesday, October 13, Ethekon held discussions with PS Isaboke, Omwoyo and officials from the Ministry of ICT on the transmission of election results.

The Commission said the discussions focused on areas of collaboration and support, particularly in strengthening media liaison and coordination, as well as assessing network coverage requirements necessary for the timely and effective transmission of election results during the 2027 General Election.

"Chairperson Ethekon said the Commission is working to ensure the timely, accurate and verifiable transmission and management of election results in 2027. 

"He underscored the importance of collaboration with relevant government agencies and media stakeholders in strengthening the communication infrastructure and systems that support credible electoral processes," the statement read.

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A file photo of IEBC Chair Erastus Ethekon with Broadcasting PS Stephen Isaboke..

IEBC noted that the engagements form part of its ongoing preparations for the August 10, 2027 General Elections.

It explained that it is focused on strengthening partnerships, enhancing public access to credible electoral information and supporting transparent, accountable and efficient election management.

Other members present for the talks include IEBC Vice Chairperson Fahima Abdalla, IEBC Commissioner Alutalala Mukhwana, the Secretary for Information and Broadcasting, the Secretary for Public Communication and the Director of Public Communications.

The engagements took place weeks after the High Court dismissed a petition jointly filed by Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah, DCP Leader Rigathi Gachagua and Wiper Leader Kalonzo Musyoka challenging the legality of a national tallying centre.

Justice Gregory Mutai upheld the legality of the national tallying centre, citing Section 39(1)(c) of the Elections Act and Regulation 83(2) of the Elections (General) Regulations, which provide for the aggregation and verification of presidential results at the national level.

He explained that presidential elections were subject to a unique constitutional threshold, which made national tallying necessary.