KATIBA DAY WARNING: Civil Society Turns Up Heat on Ruto Government and IEBC with Tough Recommendations
By Jeff Kizzilah Digital Editor
Civil society organisations from across Kenya have turned up the pressure on the Government and the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), issuing a raft of recommendations aimed at strengthening constitutional governance, protecting civic space and restoring public confidence in the country’s democratic institutions.
Speaking during the Katiba Day commemorations, representatives of civil society called on the Government to fully uphold the Constitution and ensure that citizens’ rights, freedoms and democratic participation are protected.
The organisations urged the Government to strengthen accountability and transparency in public institutions, respect the independence of constitutional bodies and create a safe environment for citizens, journalists, human rights defenders and civil society organisations to exercise their constitutional freedoms.
The civil society movement also placed the IEBC under scrutiny, calling for stronger safeguards to guarantee the credibility, transparency and independence of the electoral process ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Among the recommendations are enhanced public participation in electoral processes, greater transparency in the management of elections, timely stakeholder engagement and stronger mechanisms for addressing electoral disputes and public concerns.
The organisations further urged Kenyans to remain vigilant and actively defend the gains made under the Constitution, warning that democratic institutions require constant public oversight and accountability.
They emphasised that Katiba Day should not only be a day of celebration but also an opportunity to assess how effectively the country is implementing the promises and principles contained in the Constitution.
Civil society leaders called on both the Government and IEBC to listen to citizens’ concerns and act on the recommendations, stressing that Kenya’s democratic future depends on institutions that are accountable, transparent and responsive to the people.
The organisations pledged to continue monitoring constitutional governance, civic space and preparations for the 2027 elections while mobilising citizens across the country to participate peacefully and meaningfully in democratic processes.
