Lawyer Ndegwa Njiru Dismiss Reports of Parliament Amending the Election to Bar Live Streaming

Lawyer Ndegwa Njiru has weighed in on the controversy surrounding proposed amendments to Kenya’s election laws, following reports suggesting that Parliament intends to stop the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) from livestreaming election results.

The debate has attracted significant public attention as Kenya prepares for the 2027 General Election, with questions emerging over the measures needed to guarantee transparency and public confidence in the electoral process.

The controversy centres on proposed changes to the Elections Act, particularly provisions relating to the transmission and announcement of election results. The reports have triggered concerns among political leaders, lawyers and other stakeholders who consider transparency essential to credible elections.

Njiru’s position comes at a time when discussions about electoral reforms are gaining momentum, with various political figures calling for safeguards to protect the integrity of the voting process.

Meanwhile, National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah has challenged claims that lawmakers removed the livestreaming requirement. Parliamentary clarification has also indicated that the controversial clause was deleted from the Bill, leaving Section 39 of the Elections Act intact.

The distinction has become central to the debate, as deleting a proposed amendment does not necessarily amount to prohibiting livestreaming. Instead, the legal implications depend on the provisions that remain in force and how the electoral commission implements them.

The IEBC plays a crucial role in managing elections, including the announcement and transmission of results. Consequently, any changes affecting these responsibilities are likely to attract close scrutiny from political parties, election observers and members of the public.

As the 2027 elections draw closer, the controversy has renewed calls for clear communication from Parliament and the electoral commission regarding proposed legal changes.

Kenyans are keen to understand whether the amendments could affect access to election information and the safeguards available to prevent disputes over results.

The unfolding debate is expected to keep electoral transparency in the spotlight as stakeholders push for reforms that strengthen public trust in the country’s democratic institutions.

https://x.com/NjiruAdv/status/2113669360321441838

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