Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah has criticized the government for failing to reconstitute the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), describing it as a calculated move to disenfranchise young voters. Speaking on Friday, January 10, Omtatah argued that the prolonged vacancy at the IEBC, combined with delays in issuing national ID cards, represents a deliberate effort to suppress democratic participation, particularly among Gen Z voters.
A Deliberate Design to Suppress Participation
“The lack of a fully constituted IEBC is not accidental; it’s a deliberate design,” Omtatah asserted. “This calculated move aims to block new voters, particularly the Gen Zs, who represent the majority. Coupled with delays and errors in issuing National IDs, it becomes clear that these systemic hurdles are meant to suppress participation in our democracy.”
The Senator emphasized the urgent need to safeguard every Kenyan’s right to register and vote, calling on citizens to demand immediate corrective measures. “We must call this out and demand immediate action to ensure every Kenyan’s right to register, vote, and be heard is protected,” he added.
Barriers to Electoral Progress
The IEBC’s reconstitution has been stalled by political disputes and legal battles. A key issue within the Azimio la Umoja coalition involved disagreements over nominations to the IEBC selection panel. Augustus Muli, a coalition nominee, sought intervention from the Political Parties Disputes Tribunal after attempts were made to replace him with Koki Muli.
The delays have been further exacerbated by the National Assembly’s recess periods. Although nominees for the IEBC selection panel were submitted, the approval process was suspended when Parliament went on recess on August 15. Despite the resumption of parliamentary sessions, the process remains incomplete, hindered by ongoing legal disputes and political disagreements.
Calls for Urgent Action
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula has underscored the urgency of reconstituting the IEBC, pointing to the pending boundary reviews and by-elections. “We cannot afford further delays on boundary reviews or pending by-elections in our wards and constituencies. I urge those obstructing this process to reconsider their stance and allow the country to move forward,” Wetangula said.
Impact on Kenya’s Democracy
The delays in reconstituting the IEBC and addressing systemic barriers threaten to undermine Kenya’s democratic foundations. For young voters, particularly those in the Gen Z demographic, the obstacles to registering and participating in elections could have long-lasting implications for representation and governance.
As political disputes persist, the need for transparency, accountability, and swift action grows more urgent. Omtatah’s call to action serves as a reminder of the stakes involved in ensuring a fair and inclusive electoral process for all Kenyans.
