Narc Kenya party leader Martha Karua has criticised Parliament’s decision to remove the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission’s (IEBC) legal obligation to livestream election results at polling stations, describing the move as a sign of fear.
In a statement shared on social media, Karua questioned why lawmakers would weaken electoral transparency safeguards despite constitutional requirements for credible and accountable elections.
“Parliament’s decision to remove the IEBC’s legal obligation to livestream results at polling stations is a sign of fear!” Karua stated.
She cited Article 81 of the Constitution, which outlines the principles governing elections in Kenya, including transparency, impartiality, accuracy and accountability.
“Article 81 of our Constitution demands transparent, impartial, accurate and accountable elections. These are not optional safeguards,” she said.
Karua further warned that weakening transparency measures could deepen public mistrust in the country’s electoral process, noting that Kenya had previously paid a heavy price for electoral disputes and distrust.
“Kenya has paid a heavy price for electoral distrust. How can MPs claim to represent the people while weakening the very safeguards that protect their votes?” she posed.
The former Justice Minister challenged lawmakers to prioritise transparency, arguing that public access to polling-station results was essential to building confidence in elections.
“If our leaders are confident in the people’s choice, why make it harder to see the results? Strengthen transparency, don’t undermine it,” Karua added.
Her remarks come amid ongoing debate over electoral reforms and the legal framework governing the transmission and verification of election results ahead of the 2027 General Election.
The changes have raised questions about the safeguards available to voters and election observers in verifying results announced at polling stations.
