National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has urged the newly constituted Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to embark on gaining the trust of Kenyans as the country heads towards the 2027 elections.

In a statement after meeting the commission’s leadership at the Parliament Buildings on Thursday, July 31, 2025, Wetang’ula told IEBC chairperson Erastus Ethekon to uphold his oath of office, noting that Kenyans expect nothing short of impartiality.

“This morning, I led a section of the Parliamentary Leadership and Members of Parliament in congratulating the Chairperson Erastus Ethekon, and Members of the reconstituted Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) following their assumption into office,” Wetang’ula said.

Restore public confidence

“During the meeting, I urged the commission to move with speed and begin the journey of restoring the public’s confidence in the institution, and uphold its rightful place as the cornerstone of free, fair, verifiable, and credible elections.”

The speaker assured IEBC of their support in legislative matters, noting that the budgetary shortfalls will be promptly addressed.

“I reminded the Chairman and members of the commission to respect their oath of office even as I insisted that Kenyans expect nothing but impartiality, integrity, and professionalism in the discharge of their Constitutional mandate,” Wetang’ula stated.

“As Parliament, we assured the Commission of our support in processing any legislative proposals that facilitate the operations of the Commission, with Members supporting proposals to have continuous funding to address the constant budgetary shortfalls faced by the poll body.”

Beyond reproach

Wetang’ula also advised the commission to be beyond reproach, urging it to minimize conflicts often witnessed during election periods.

“To minimize conflict that is often witnessed post the electioneering period, I encouraged the commission to engage all stakeholders as part of its efforts in restoring public confidence. I further encouraged them to be like Caesar’s wife, beyond reproach,” Wetang’ula said.

With just two years to the next general elections, the IEBC finds itself with a full in-tray of by-elections to conduct, and organize a free and fair election in 2027, even as the country is embroiled in a heated political battle over the upcoming polls.