The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has told MPs it will require about Sh74 billion to conduct the 2027 General Election, as it defended its preparedness and budget estimates before a parliamentary committee.
Appearing before the National Assembly Departmental Committee on Justice and Legal Affairs, the Commission led by Vice Chairperson Fahima Araphat Abdallah said the cost reflects the scale and complexity of delivering a credible poll.
Ms Abdallah told the committee chaired by George Gitonga Murugara that elections go beyond ballot papers, involving extensive logistics, technology systems, transport, and secure handling of electoral materials across the country.
She said the Commission has prioritised stakeholder engagement as part of its preparations, noting that different groups, including youth, persons with disabilities, marginalised communities and constituency stakeholders, require tailored forums to ensure inclusivity in the electoral process.
IEBC also indicated that it has budgeted for simulation exercises and testing of election technology to minimise risks during the poll. Other planned activities include the second phase of enhanced continuous voter registration, expansion of diaspora registration to additional countries, procurement of more Kenya Integrated Election Management System kits, and mapping of new polling stations in response to a growing voter register.
Members of the committee urged the Commission to provide clear electoral timelines and fast-track reforms to avoid last-minute challenges.
In response, IEBC said the timelines have been incorporated in its Electoral Operations Plan and Strategic Plan, which are expected to be launched in June 2026 after stakeholder validation.
The committee assured the Commission of its support but called for prudent use of public resources, emphasising the need for cost efficiency as preparations for the 2027 General Election gather pace.
