Low Confidence in IEBC as Kenyans Question 2027 Election Credibility – Poll

A recent survey by Infotrak paints a grim picture of Kenyans' confidence in the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) ahead of the 2027 elections. According to the poll, only 26 per cent of Kenyans believe the IEBC will conduct free and fair elections.

Infotrak CEO Angela Ambitho shared the findings on Monday, noting widespread skepticism about the commission's transparency. “Sixty per cent of Kenyans feel that the IEBC lacks transparency, and this sentiment greatly undermines trust in the institution,” said Ambitho during the presentation.

The survey, conducted between November 16 and 30 and supported by the Electoral Law and Governance Institute in Africa, identified several reasons for the public’s mistrust. External interference was the leading concern, cited by 39 per cent of respondents. Corruption within the IEBC was flagged by another 38 per cent, while the lack of commissioners in the agency was also highlighted by 38 per cent of those polled.

These issues contribute to a growing apathy among voters, with half of the respondents (50 per cent) saying they feel disengaged from the democratic process. “Apathy at this level could significantly hinder democratic governance unless it is addressed urgently,” warned Ambitho.

Another pressing challenge revealed by the poll is the lack of identification cards, a prerequisite for voter registration. “Forty-one per cent of Kenyans do not have ID cards, and this is a major obstacle to voter registration,” said Ambitho.

The survey also explored reasons for low voter turnout in previous elections, with 16 per cent of respondents citing a busy schedule as their reason for not participating in the last general polls.

Public participation in decision-making processes also remains a concern. The poll found that 75 per cent of Kenyans have not been involved in public participation forums, denying them a platform to influence key decisions.

Beyond electoral issues, the survey highlighted the challenges Kenyans face in their daily lives. The cost of living emerged as the top concern, with 51 per cent of respondents listing it as their primary issue. Other concerns included unemployment (36 per cent), corruption (24 per cent), and over-taxation alongside the transition from NHIF to SHIF (23 per cent).

The survey also assessed trust levels in key government institutions. The Executive and National Assembly led with a trust rating of 37 per cent, followed by the police at 33 per cent.

The survey interviewed 2,400 respondents across Kenya’s 47 counties, providing a comprehensive snapshot of public sentiment.

Ambitho concluded with a cautionary note: “These findings underscore the urgent need for reforms within the IEBC and greater efforts to restore public confidence in democratic institutions.”