Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) Chair Erastus Ethekon has urged Parliament to fast-track the passage of the Election Financing Regulations Amendment Act, saying it is crucial for ensuring a level playing field for all political players.

Speaking during a radio interview on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, Ethekon emphasised that the amendment, which is currently under consideration in Parliament, will enable the commission to regulate campaign financing effectively.

He called on legislators to expedite the process so that the IEBC can develop a framework to implement the law once it is enacted.

“There are concerns around campaign financing. Hii ni changamoto ambayo Wakenya wamezungumzia. Tunataka kuona kwamba sheria ipitishwe. Hizo regulations za campaign financing ndio sisi kama tume tuanze kazi ya kuregulate campaign financing ili tu create a level playing ground for everybody,” Ethekon stated.

According to the IEBC chair, the amendment is necessary to ensure transparency and fairness in election campaigns, allowing all candidates equal opportunities to compete.

He went on to state that there are several laws and motions lying in Parliament regarding the technology used by IEBC, which, when enacted, will help achieve the dream of Kenyans of having election results announced faster, almost instantly, like instant coffee.

 He said the laws will help IEBC improve their technology, which will, in turn, enable faster transmission of election results.

He further called upon Parliament to help expedite the implementation of these laws, saying that it would be a step towards achieving a transparent election.

 Ethekon further went on to call for expediting the laws that will see those who disrupt the electoral process facing heftier punishment than it currently stands.

Elections Amendment Act

The law seeks to tighten and increase the punishment of political players who contravene the Elections Amendment Act.

He explained that Kenya’s electoral activities are guided by the Constitution, particularly Article 88, which grants the IEBC its mandate. Several laws have been enacted to facilitate smooth elections and regulate every stage of the process, ensuring confidence in the integrity of the system.

“Kuna sheria ambazo tumepropose for amendment just to make things better. If the election offences law is to be tightened, it is fitting to enhance the punishment penalties for those people who are messing with the electoral process,” Ethekon said.