Calls Grow for Ruto to Reject Elections Amendment Bill

Calls are growing for President William Ruto to reject the Elections (Amendment) (No. 2) Bill, 2024, over concerns that proposed changes could weaken transparency in the management of election results ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Taifa Mpya, a civic youth organisation, has urged the President not to assent to the Bill in its current form, arguing that removing the mandatory livestreaming of election results from polling stations could undermine public confidence in the electoral process.

The organisation wants Ruto to exercise his constitutional powers under Article 115 of the Constitution by referring the Bill back to Parliament with a reservation requesting the restoration of mandatory livestreaming.

According to critics, livestreaming election results provides an opportunity for Kenyans, political parties and other stakeholders to observe the results transmission process and hold electoral officials accountable. They argue that removing the requirement could raise concerns about openness and accountability during the 2027 polls.

The debate comes as preparations for the next General Election continue to draw public attention, with electoral transparency expected to remain a key issue among political leaders, civil society groups and voters.

Supporters of mandatory livestreaming believe that technology can help strengthen trust in elections by allowing the public to follow the announcement and transmission of results from polling stations. They maintain that transparent procedures are essential in preventing disputes and ensuring that citizens have confidence in the outcome of elections.

Taifa Mpya’s appeal places pressure on the President to carefully consider the implications of the proposed amendments before making a final decision on the Bill.

Under Article 115, the President may refer a Bill back to Parliament with reservations for reconsideration. Lawmakers can then consider the President’s concerns and decide whether to amend the proposed legislation.

As discussions continue, the handling of the Bill is likely to attract further public scrutiny, particularly from groups advocating for credible, transparent and accountable elections.

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