Mudavadi urges credible nominations, voter registration ahead of 2027

Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has called on political hopefuls in Western Kenya to focus on credible party nominations, voter registration, and a peaceful election process prior to the 2027 General Election. At a gathering with local aspirants at Tom Mboya Labour College in Kisumu, Mudavadi stressed that party nominations should ensure a fair contest between current officeholders and challengers.

He emphasized that a person's existing position should not automatically grant them a party ticket, encouraging all candidates to rely on their records and capability to secure voter backing. "None shall receive preferential treatment merely because they hold an existing office. The nomination procedure must surpass any single individual," Mudavadi said.

The Cabinet Secretary advocated for transparent, rule-based nominations supported by reliable membership records, proper polling arrangements, documented results, and effective means of resolving disputes. He challenged candidates to prioritize voter registration, noting that approximately 1.5 million eligible individuals with identification documents in Kakamega, Bungoma, Trans Nzoia, Busia, and Vihiga had yet to register as voters.

According to the latest update from the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) on April 9, 2026, these five counties saw 107,093 new voter registrations. Mudavadi also urged political leaders to safeguard the IEBC's independence and integrity, cautioning against unsubstantiated claims that could erode public trust in the electoral process.

"Challenge the IEBC with facts, documents, and legal procedures, not rumors," he urged. He cautioned against prematurely declaring the 2027 election compromised, stating that political complaints should be handled through established legal and institutional channels. "No one should declare the 2027 election a sham before a single vote is cast," he cautioned.

Party primaries are set for March 17 to April 10, 2027, followed by an intra-party dispute-resolution period concluding on May 8. The General Election is scheduled for August 10, 2027.