A group of ambassadors and high commissioners from thirteen Western countries have welcomed the appointment of Kenya’s new Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) chairperson and commissioners.
In a joint statement on Tuesday, July 15, 2025 the envoys representing Germany, the Netherlands, Denmark, Ireland, Australia, Switzerland, Norway, Canada, the UK, the United States, Sweden, and Finland, affirmed the importance of the IEBC in upholding Kenya’s constitutional principles and ensuring credible elections. They emphasized that independent institutions like the IEBC are vital for maintaining electoral integrity and public trust in democratic outcomes.
“As Kenya’s longstanding partners and fellow democracies, we affirm the critical role independent institutions play in upholding the provisions of Kenya’s constitution, particularly those guaranteeing free, fair, and credible elections,” the statement read in part.
They expressed confidence that the new commissioners will perform their duties with impartiality, transparency, and professionalism, in service to all Kenyans.
The envoys called on the National Assembly and the National Treasury to ensure the IEBC receives adequate and timely funding, which they said is essential for the commission’s independence and efficiency. They also called on relevant institutions to ensure all eligible citizens are registered to vote and can freely participate in the electoral process.
“We stand ready, working in partnership, to further strengthen electoral systems and bolster public trust in Kenya’s democratic institutions,” read part of the statement.