Opposition Leader Dr. Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka, former Vice President and Co-Chair of the National Dialogue Committee (NADCO), delivered a passionate call for comprehensive electoral reforms during the National Conference on the Roadmap to the Finalisation of Electoral Reforms, held in Nairobi today. The conference aimed to address critical issues in Kenya’s electoral system as the country prepares for the 2027 general elections.
Dr. Musyoka praised the Electoral Law and Governance Institute for Africa (ELGIA) for its unwavering commitment to enhancing electoral transparency and accou cuzntability. He highlighted the substantial progress made in improving Kenya’s electoral framework due to ELGIA’s efforts, emphasizing their role in fostering a more democratic society.
Central to Musyoka’s address was the NADCO report, which was tasked with proposing reforms to enhance electoral credibility. The report’s significant recommendation was the reconstitution and restructuring of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), a move Musyoka supports as essential for rebuilding public trust in the electoral process.
However, Musyoka expressed concern over the slow progress in implementing these reforms. He criticized the political delays and institutional interference that have left the IEBC without commissioners for over a year. This void has hampered crucial electoral functions, including holding by-elections and reviewing electoral boundaries. Notable vacant positions include parliamentary seats and local assembly seats in various constituencies due to recent deaths and political changes.
Musyoka also condemned the recent decision by the Political Parties Dispute Tribunal, which he claimed disregarded the constitutional two-thirds gender principle in the nomination process for the IEBC Selection Panel. He urged the Parliamentary Service Commission to uphold the gender requirements and support the nomination of Amb. Dr. Koki Muli Grignon as the representative of the Minority party.
The former Vice President stressed the importance of electoral justice and the need to address past grievances that have undermined public confidence in the electoral system. He called for the implementation of NADCO’s recommendations to address these issues and ensure fair elections in 2027.
Inclusivity was another key focus of Musyoka’s speech. He emphasized the need to enhance participation from women, youth, and people with disabilities to ensure that elections reflect the will of all Kenyans. Musyoka highlighted the need for increased representation and opportunities for women in public and elective positions.
On the topic of technology, Musyoka advocated for investments in secure and transparent electronic voting systems, urging a thorough audit to ensure the integrity of future elections. He also stressed the importance of strengthening electoral institutions, including the IEBC and judiciary, to operate without political pressure.
Addressing voter registration challenges, Musyoka outlined several obstacles, including delays in ID card issuance, bureaucratic hurdles, and corruption. These issues, if left unresolved, could disenfranchise many voters and affect turnout in the upcoming elections.
Azimio la Umoja Leader called for collective action from all stakeholders—political parties, civil society, and government bodies—to embrace and implement the NADCO recommendations. He urged all involved to prioritize national interests over partisan politics to ensure that Kenya’s electoral system is transparent, accountable, and truly reflective of the people’s will.
Musyoka’s speech underscored a critical juncture in Kenya’s democratic journey, emphasizing that the path to a more equitable and transparent electoral process has already begun, driven by both institutional efforts and public demand for change.