Wetangula: Politicians Cannot Choose the ‘Referee’ Ahead of 2027 Polls
Wetangula urged politicians to allow the electoral commission to independently discharge its constitutional mandate.
Kakamega County, Kenya – National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula has cautioned politicians against interfering with the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) as they prepare for the 2027 General Election. Speaking at a market in Butere Constituency, Wetangula urged politicians to respect the IEBC's role and refrain from attempting to influence its procurement processes or decision-making.
He emphasized that the IEBC is an independent body under the Constitution, free from political interference. Wetangula cited the 2017 presidential election dispute and the Supreme Court's role in resolving it, urging politicians to respect the electoral process. He also called on IEBC officials to remain committed to their constitutional duties and resist political pressure.
Wetangula further warned politicians against influencing IEBC procurement decisions, emphasizing that such matters should be handled by the commission itself. The IEBC tender, which includes the supply and installation of an Integrated Elections Management System, has attracted criticism from former Deputy President and Democracy for Citizens Party leader Rigathi Gachagua, who alleged that the tender was designed to favor a South Korean technology firm.
However, the IEBC has rejected these allegations, stating that the procurement process is open and transparent. Wetangula used a football analogy to illustrate his point, emphasizing that politicians cannot choose the "referee" or influence the rules of the game. Meanwhile, President William Ruto's aide dismissed concerns over the IEBC tender, urging politicians to allow the commission to complete the procurement process.
Written by urgent.news from Capital FM Kenya's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
