Evangelical Alliance of Kenya and IEBC pledge peaceful, credible elections ahead of 2027 general elections

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 The Evangelical Alliance of Kenya (EAK) and the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) have renewed their shared commitment to promoting peaceful, transparent and inclusive elections as the country gears up for the 2027 General Elections.

The pledge was made during a joint prayer breakfast and engagement forum held in Nairobi, which brought together IEBC commissioners, EAK officials and faith leaders from different parts of Kenya. The meeting aimed to strengthen cooperation between religious institutions and the electoral body in preparation for the next national polls.

Speaking at the forum, EAK General Secretary Rev. Kepha Nyandega said the gathering was an opportunity to reflect on the responsibility of institutions, the church and citizens in safeguarding national unity and public confidence in the electoral process.

“Kenya is on a critical journey towards the 2027 General Elections, and this journey calls for collaborative responsibility, sober reflection and intentional action by all stakeholders. The decisions we make now will shape the credibility, peace and integrity of the next electoral process,” said Rev. Nyandega.

He noted that faith leaders recognise the importance of early dialogue and consistent engagement to ensure elections are conducted in line with the Constitution and with full transparency.

“We must collectively ensure that the coming election is peaceful, credible and transparent, and that it truly reflects the will of the people of Kenya. This responsibility cannot be left to institutions alone,” he added.

Rev. Nyandega further emphasised that the church will continue playing its moral role by encouraging unity, integrity and peaceful coexistence among citizens.

“The church remains committed to promoting moral leadership, integrity and national unity, while encouraging citizens to participate peacefully and responsibly in democratic processes,” he said.

During the meeting, the IEBC briefed faith leaders on its roadmap towards the 2027 elections, highlighting key timelines, preparedness measures and potential challenges, while reaffirming its constitutional mandate.

IEBC Chairperson Dr. Erastus Edung Ethekon said continued engagement with faith-based organisations is essential in building public trust and strengthening the credibility of the electoral process.

“The commission remains firmly committed to conducting elections that are free, fair, transparent and credible, as required by the Constitution of Kenya. We are undertaking preparations early to safeguard the integrity of the 2027 General Elections,” said Dr. Ethekon.

He added that partnerships with organisations such as EAK would enhance accountability and openness in the commission’s work.

“We encourage the Evangelical Alliance of Kenya to participate in the development of the electoral blueprint as part of our inclusive stakeholder engagement. Such partnerships are essential in building public confidence,” he said.

Dr. Ethekon also urged religious leaders to use their influence to promote ethical leadership and peaceful civic participation throughout the electoral period.

“The church has a responsibility to speak truth to power, promote value-based leadership and guide citizens towards peaceful civic participation. Faith institutions play a vital role in shaping national values,” he said.

The meeting strongly condemned electoral violence, intimidation, hate speech and incitement, warning that such actions threaten democracy and weaken public trust. Political leaders were urged to exercise restraint, while places of worship were encouraged to remain centres of prayer, reconciliation and moral guidance.

Both EAK and IEBC called on government and security agencies to uphold the Constitution, protect citizens’ rights and ensure the rule of law is respected during the electoral process. They also underscored the need for voter registration and civic education to promote informed and responsible participation.

In support of these efforts, EAK offered its network of member churches as platforms for voter sensitisation, peace messaging, civic education and election observation in partnership with IEBC.

Kenyans are advised to reject violence, uphold constitutional values and promote unity, peace and mutual respect as the country prepares for the 2027 General Elections.