Parliament has rejected key budget proposals by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) for the 2027 General Election, directing the electoral body to review its financial estimates and implement immediate spending cuts.
The National Assembly Justice and Legal Affairs Committee cited the country’s tight economic conditions and the need to reduce election costs. IEBC had requested Ksh 1.5 billion to purchase land for a new election operations centre, Ksh 6.2 billion to replace and upgrade KIEMS kits, and additional funds to renew its ageing fleet.
Kanduyi MP John Makali questioned the necessity of the land purchase, requesting details on current office rent to justify the allocation. Similarly, Rarieda MP Otiende Amollo challenged the Ksh 6.2 billion KIEMS upgrade, asking whether existing devices could be upgraded instead. IEBC Vice Chair Fahima Araphat defended the need for new vehicles to ensure smooth voter registration and verification nationwide.
The budget review comes amid broader electoral challenges. The Commission cannot complete a full boundary review before 2027 due to constitutional timelines and a High Court ruling invalidating the 2019 Census data for 14 constituencies in Garissa, Wajir, and Mandera. Consequently, many constituencies may enter the 2027 polls with outdated and potentially unequal representation.
The committee has tasked IEBC to submit a revised, cost-effective plan ahead of final approval, emphasizing fiscal prudence as the country prepares for the next general election.
