The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has dismissed claims of potential voter register manipulation, assuring Kenyans that all its data handling processes are legal, secure, and fully guided by the Constitution and electoral laws.
In a press release yesterday, February 16, 2026, the Commission responded to allegations made by Justin Muturi, clarifying that its collaboration with state agencies is routine and necessary for accurate voter registration and verification.
Citing Article 88(4) of the Constitution and Sections 4 and 6 of the Elections Act, 2011, IEBC reiterated that it is mandated to maintain an accurate and up-to-date voter register while operating independently, free from external influence. The commission explained that its coordination with government agencies is aimed at verifying identity details and removing deceased individuals from the register.
“In fulfilling this constitutional and statutory mandate, the commission is required to work with relevant government agencies that are the lawful custodians of lawful and relevant data for the execution of its mandate,” the IEBC statement read in part.
The Commission identified the National Registration Bureau, Civil Registration Services, and the Directorate of Immigration Services as key partners, noting that they verify passport details, particularly for Kenyans living abroad who are eligible to register as voters.
IEBC explained that it carries out data-sharing arrangements with both public and private institutions under strict legal frameworks to ensure accurate identity verification, maintain compliance, and prevent fraud. The Commission reassured the public that the voter register remains under its exclusive custody and control, with personal data protected under the Constitution, the Elections Act, and the Data Protection Act.
The Commission also urged political actors to avoid making unverified or inflammatory statements that could undermine public confidence in the electoral process and the institution’s independence.
The statement came a day after Muturi accused William Ruto of planning to use national ID data of young voters to influence the outcome of the 2027 General Election. Speaking at a rally in Zimmerman, Roysambu, he suggested that a previous meeting between IEBC and the National Registration Bureau might be part of a broader scheme to manipulate voter data.
He further claimed that such actions could allow improperly obtained identification records to affect election results, allegations that IEBC has firmly denied while reaffirming its commitment to transparency and the integrity of Kenya’s electoral process.
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