The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has responded to growing speculation over claims that voter cards may be scrapped ahead of the 2027 General Election.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, July 29, IEBC Chairperson Erastus Ethekon clarified that no final decision has been made regarding the use of voter cards. He explained that while a number of legislative proposals are under review, the process is still ongoing.
“These proposals have already been submitted to the Justice and Legal Affairs Committee of the National Assembly and the Senate’s Standing Committee on Legal Affairs and Human Rights for further consideration,” the statement read.
Among the legislative amendments being considered are the Elections (Amendment) Bill, 2024, the Political Parties (Amendment) Bill, 2024, and the Election Offences (Amendment) Bill, 2024. Additionally, the Commission is reviewing several regulations from 2012, including those on general elections, voter registration, and voter education.
IEBC emphasized that any changes to the electoral framework will only be implemented after thorough public participation, in line with a High Court directive.
“In compliance with the court’s judgment, the Commission intends to subject all draft regulations to comprehensive public engagement. Contributions from stakeholders will be incorporated before implementation,” the statement added.
The clarification comes in the wake of a media report suggesting that voter cards may no longer be required to vote implying that presenting a national ID or passport could suffice under the proposed changes.
While the IEBC has not ruled out the possibility, it stressed that no amendments have been adopted yet and the final direction will depend on both legislative approval and public input.
