Kenya's former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has accused the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) of biased procurement practices, alleging that the commission favored certain political groups in acquiring an Integrated Elections Management System (IEMS). In response, President William Ruto's deputy, William Ruto, dismissed these claims as unfounded, stating that the 2027 elections will rely solely on the ballot box.
Gachagua, who previously served as a senior official in the ruling Jubilee Party, claimed that the procurement process for the IEMS was influenced by political interests, potentially compromising the integrity of future elections. He argued that the system's selection was not transparent and could be used to manipulate results.
Ruto, however, maintained that the electoral process would remain fair and impartial, emphasizing that the 2027 polls would be conducted with the utmost transparency. He urged all stakeholders to focus on ensuring a peaceful and credible election rather than speculating on past decisions.
The controversy highlights ongoing tensions around electoral integrity in Kenya, with political leaders continuing to debate the role of technology in democratic processes.
