Chief Justice Martha Koome has called on the IEBC to disqualify politicians who sponsor goons ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Chief Justice Martha Koome made the call on Wednesday, June 24, during the launch of the IEBC Election Operations Plan 2025-2027. She stated that the electoral body must act decisively and that the era of warnings without consequences should end.
"I call on IEBC to exercise its mandate with courage because the Constitution gives it to you. The times for warnings without consequences must come to an end," Koome said.
IEBC Chairperson Erustus Ethekon also spoke at the event, noting that politicians have relied on hired groups armed with crude weapons during election seasons, leading to clashes and loss of lives. The remarks come amid concerns over politically sponsored gangs and follow a warning from the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops on June 23 against the weaponisation of youth.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has pledged stern action against any leaders found sponsoring such groups.
