Kalonzo and Karua Condemn IEBC Recruitment and Early Campaigns

In a joint statement issued today, Kalonzo Musyoka and Martha Karua, prominent figures of the People’s Loyal Coalition, have strongly condemned the ongoing recruitment process for the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) and the early political campaigns being conducted across the country.

The two leaders raised concerns that the recruitment process for the IEBC is being manipulated by the current administration, particularly accusing President William Ruto’s government of undermining the independence of the electoral body.

Musyoka and Karua claimed that the process is being used to strategically place politically aligned individuals within key positions, a move they believe will tilt the balance in favor of certain political factions during the upcoming elections.

"The recruitment of IEBC officials must be conducted transparently and impartially," said Kalonzo. "What we are witnessing is a clear attempt to control the electoral process and subvert democracy."

The leaders also condemned the involvement of the National Intelligence Service (NIS) in the recruitment process, which they say is a further indication of the politicization of the IEBC.

They expressed their concerns over the lack of inclusivity and transparency in the process, calling for an urgent review to ensure that the commission remains neutral and independent.

In addition to the concerns over IEBC recruitment, Kalonzo and Karua also took aim at the ongoing early political campaigns, accusing various political factions of using state resources to gain an unfair advantage.

They criticized the growing trend of early campaigning, which they say has led to the misuse of government resources and has stoked divisions among Kenyans.

"The campaign period has yet to officially begin, yet we are already witnessing politicians taking advantage of state machinery for personal gain," Karua said. "This is not only unethical but illegal, and it undermines the integrity of our democratic process."

Further adding to the tension, the leaders reported that violent clashes had occurred at several political rallies, further fueling concerns about the potential for violence in the lead-up to the elections.

They called for greater measures to ensure peaceful and free campaigns, urging all political parties to adhere to the rule of law and avoid inciting violence.

The statement concluded with a call for an election process that prioritizes fairness, transparency, and inclusivity.

Kalonzo and Karua warned that any attempts to undermine the electoral system would have dire consequences for the country’s democracy and stability.

The two leaders have promised to continue pushing for reforms to safeguard the integrity of the election process, and they vowed to hold those in power accountable for any actions that threaten the fairness of the upcoming general elections.