- MPs approve the Election Offences (Amendment) (No.2) Bill, 2024.
- Bill targets IEBC officials who delay results, alter outcomes, or tamper with materials.
- Offenders face KSh 2 million fine, 5 years in jail, or both.
- Legislation bans elections in ungazetted polling stations and regulates technology use.
- Aims to restore trust in Kenya’s electoral process.
On Thursday, Members of Parliament approved the Election Offences (Amendment) (No.2) Bill, 2024, focusing on making IEBC officials more accountable ahead of the 2027 General Election.
The Bill was sponsored by Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot and his Minority counterpart Stewart Madzayo, and it draws from recommendations made by the National Dialogue Committee (NADCO).
Key Provisions
The legislation introduces strict measures for election officials who:
Delay announcing results after polls close.
Knowingly alter declared results.
Tamper with election materials.
Offenders can face a fine of up to KSh 2 million, imprisonment for up to five years, or both.
The Bill also: Invalidates results from ungazetted polling stations. Criminalizes spreading false information about candidates or parties. Sets rules for the use of technology to stop manipulation of voters.
MPs say the Bill reflects public recommendations from national dialogues on electoral justice and political accountability.
It is designed to strengthen Kenya’s election laws and ensure a transparent process, boosting public confidence ahead of the 2027 polls.
