Trans-Nzoia governor George Natembeya has called on Kenyans to actively participate in the next general election by turning out in large numbers to vote, even as concerns continue over public confidence in the electoral body.

Speaking during a night interview with a local station on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, Natembeya urged citizens to exercise their democratic right, stating that voter participation remains crucial to strengthening the country’s democracy.

“I am calling upon Kenyans to exercise their democratic right next year by coming out in large numbers to vote,” Natembeya said.

Natembeya challenged the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to restore confidence to Kenyans, who he said are currently have limited trust in the commission.

He noted that the commission can restore trust by ensuring free and fair elections in the 2027 general elections.

“Kenyans have very little trust in IEBC. Can they surprise us next year by demonstrating that they are working towards a free and fair election?” Natembeya posed.

Natembeya further stated that transparent and credible electoral processes are essential in safeguarding democratic governance and maintaining public faith in the country’s institutions.

Mismanagement by government

He said that the middle-class Kenyans, who have suffered from the mismanagement by the government, fail to vote due to trust in the commission.

“I was talking to one of your senior officers here (referring to the interviewee); I know he has never voted, and he is in the middle class that has suffered the mismanagement occasioned by this government,” Natembeya noted.

The Governor’s remarks come at a pivotal time as the commission, now led by Chairperson Erastus Ethekon, ramps up its roadmap for the 2027 polls.

The IEBC recently announced an Enhanced Continuous Voter Registration (ECVR) drive set to launch on March 30, 2026, aiming to net 2.5 million new voters in its first phase alone.

Additional budget

The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) is requesting an additional Ksh888 million through the first supplementary budget.

The proposed spending, which includes new vehicles for commissioners, office refurbishments, and a mass voter registration drive, has drawn criticism from the National Assembly Justice and Legal Affairs Committee.

Lawmakers specifically questioned the commission’s priorities, including a Ksh3.5 billion plan to construct the ‘Uchaguzi Centre’.

Additionally, the funds are intended to cover the exit package for former CEO Marjan Hussein Marjan.

The commission is also seeking Ksh168 million for the purchase of commissioners’ motor vehicles, Ksh10 million for furniture for the commissioners, and Ksh120 million for the renovation of commission offices.