IEBC Warns Goonism and AI Misuse Threaten 2027 Election

The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) warned that political goonism, gangsterism and the misuse of artificial intelligence pose serious threats to a free, fair and credible General Election scheduled for August 10, 2027.

IEBC Commissioner Prof. Francis Odhiambo made the remarks in Nyeri on Wednesday, October 7, 2026, saying the commission can only deliver a credible election if voters can cast their ballots in a peaceful and secure environment.

Odhiambo identified the most serious threat as goonism, followed by political gangsterism and then AI misuse, adding that the commission hopes to bring these risks under control before the poll.

Nyeri County Commissioner Josephat Biwott called for existing laws, including the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act, to be enforced against individuals spreading hate speech or issuing threats.

Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga urged the IEBC to monitor candidates throughout the electoral process and take action against any who breach election rules.

IEBC Chairperson Erastus Ethekon, while meeting security chiefs on the Coast in Mombasa, reaffirmed the commission’s independence and stressed the need to identify electoral risks early and establish clear escalation procedures.

The commission is engaging county security teams across the country to map potential hotspots and prepare for heightened political activity as preparations for the 2027 General Election intensify.