IEBC boss calls for support in rebuilding public trust
By Faith Lagat, August 5, 2025Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) Chairperson Erastus Edung Ethekon has called for robust media collaboration in rebuilding public trust in the country’s electoral process as preparations intensify for the August 10, 2027, General Election.
Speaking during a courtesy call by a delegation from the Media Council of Kenya (MCK), Ethekon stressed the powerful influence of media in shaping public perception and fostering electoral transparency.
The meeting, held at IEBC headquarters on August 5, 2025, marked a renewed partnership between the two institutions.
“Trust is a collective responsibility, especially for the media due to its powerful influence. Trust cannot be bought,” said Ethekon. “The Commission will continue to engage media practitioners to develop a framework that will guide their operations ahead of the 2027 General Election.”
Voter education and credibility
The IEBC Chairperson urged the media to support the commission’s voter education efforts, particularly during the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise and the upcoming 23 by-elections. He noted that factual reporting will be key to countering misinformation and building electoral credibility.
Commissioner Alutalala Mukwana, who chairs the Voter Education, Partnerships, Communication, and Stakeholder Engagement Committee, echoed the call, stating, “The Commissioner called upon the media to support @IEBCKenya to combat misinformation and the spread of fake news through accurate and factual reporting on electoral matters.”
His remarks are aligned with findings from the 2024 Media Integrity Index, which reported a 30 percent surge in fake news during election periods in Kenya.
IEBC sets reform agenda
The engagement comes weeks after the new IEBC team, led by Ethekon and six commissioners, was sworn in on July 11, 2025, following a prolonged legal battle. In a July 19 press briefing, Ethekon affirmed the Commission’s readiness to deliver inclusive, credible, transparent, and peaceful elections in 2027.
Chief Justice Martha Koome, while presiding over the swearing-in, had underscored the electoral body’s pivotal role in protecting democratic values. “The work you undertake directly impacts the legitimacy of government, the peace and stability of the nation, and public confidence in the rule of law,” she said.
MCK reaffirms support
MCK Board Chairperson Maina Muiruri said the Council was keen to strengthen collaboration with the Commission, while CEO David Omwoyo commended IEBC’s data provision for enhancing accurate reporting.
Both institutions reaffirmed their commitment to upholding electoral integrity, joining a growing call from political leaders, including Democratic Party leader Justin Muturi, who on July 17 urged IEBC to prioritise transparency to boost voter confidence.