People’s Liberation Party (PLP) leader Martha Karua
has revealed plans by the United Opposition to form an independent electoral
oversight body ahead of the 2027 General Election.
In an interview on Thursday, Karua emphasised
that the opposition would not stand by and allow the upcoming election to be
compromised, vowing a proactive approach in safeguarding the electoral process.
“I want to restate very firmly that in this
election, we will be vigilant, we will not allow mischief,” Karua said.
“As the United Opposition, we will have our own commission; the People’s
Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) that is to observe, give
direction, and guide us.”
Karua called for public vigilance, warning
against a repeat of what she termed as “flawed elections” in the past.
She maintained that the opposition will not allow the 2027 vote to be
manipulated, regardless of who is overseeing the process.
“Even if (President William) Ruto is both the
IEBC chairman and a candidate, this election will not be rigged,” she declared.
She further urged citizens across all regions to take responsibility in
protecting the integrity of the vote by turning out in large numbers and
remaining alert throughout the electoral process.
“Kenyans too, will be vigilant. I want to ask
everyone, wherever you are, let’s be ready, let’s ensure we all vote from every
corner of Kenya and stay alert,” she said.
“Let those who are elected by the people be accepted, and let them lead.”
Karua’s
remarks come amid rising political temperatures and calls from the opposition
for reforms within the IEBC, whose composition and credibility have previously
been at the center of national debate.
This comes even after Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC)
Chairperson Erastus Ethekon has pledged his unwavering loyalty to Kenyans as
the newly appointed team starts its mandate.
Speaking on Friday, IEBC Chairperson Erastus Ethekon vowed his loyalty to Kenyans.
Following his swearing-in at the Supreme Court Buildings on July 11, Ethekon
emphasised that his primary commitment is to the citizens who hold the
sovereign power under Article One of the Constitution.
“My first and foremost loyalty is to the people of Kenya who hold the
sovereign power under Article One of our Constitution, and it allows them
therefore, to exercise their sovereign responsibility, including their right to
vote,” Ethekon said.
“I wish to assure Kenyans that their voices will not only be
heard but will also count during the coming elections.”
