Kenya’s electoral commission has warned voters against double registration and falsifying personal details, days before a set of closely watched by-elections.
In a statement issued on Thursday, Erastus Ethekon, the Chairperson of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), said the agency had strengthened its systems to detect any attempt at registering twice. He described the act as “a serious electoral offence” with severe legal consequences.
“Our system will immediately flag anyone who tries to register more than once,” Mr. Ethekon said. “Double registration is an offence, and the law is clear on the punishment.”
His remarks follow claims that some political actors are attempting to influence the outcome of the November 27 by-elections by manipulating the voter register. While the commission did not name any individuals, it said the public should resist pressure to provide false details during the ongoing registration process.
“We urge Kenyans to avoid giving incorrect information. Such practices undermine the integrity of the elections,” Mr. Ethekon added.
Under the Electoral Offences Act of 2016 and the Elections Act of 2011, double registration or giving false information can attract a fine of up to KSh1 million, a prison sentence of at least one year, or both. Other offences — including bribery, violence, impersonation and tampering with ballot papers — carry penalties of up to six years in prison or fines of up to KSh2 million.
The warning comes at a delicate moment. More than 30 counties are preparing for the by-elections, and the credibility of the vote remains a central concern for both voters and observers. With a week left, the commission insists its digital systems are ready to ensure a clean and credible process.
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