The gazettement of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission’s (IEBC) campaign financing and election observation regulations has renewed focus on the commission’s preparedness for the 2027 General Election, particularly its funding.
The IEBC has requested Sh74.8 billion to facilitate the elections, but only Sh41.3 billion has been allocated, leaving a funding shortfall of more than Sh33.5 billion.
The financial strain is further compounded by billions of shillings in pending bills, while the cost of new election technology and expanded electoral infrastructure continues to rise.
The commission estimates that the acquisition of new Kenya Integrated Election Management System (KIEMS) kits will cost Sh10.7 billion. At the same time, the number of polling stations is expected to increase from 46,229 to more than 55,393, to serve an estimated 28.5 million registered voters.
IEBC Acting Chief Executive Officer Ruth Kulundu has stressed the importance of timely funding, saying credible elections require continuous preparation rather than last-minute arrangements.
“Credible elections are not created on election day. They are built, tested and trusted throughout the electoral cycle,” she said.
With the 2027 polls drawing closer, pressure is now mounting on the National Treasury to bridge the funding gap and ensure the commission is adequately prepared to conduct a free, fair and credible election.
