IEBC Rejects Claims of Illegal Voter Registration at Uganda Border

The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has denied claims that Ugandan nationals are obtaining Kenyan identity cards and registering as voters ahead of the 2027 General Election.

The allegations suggest that some foreigners are being assisted to acquire Kenyan identification documents, which they allegedly use to register as voters, raising concerns about the integrity of the country’s electoral register.

In a statement issued on Sunday, September 27, the commission dismissed the claims as “sensationalised and unsubstantiated”, saying it had not received credible evidence of illegal registration or the involvement of foreigners in the voter registration process.

IEBC warned that unverified allegations could undermine public confidence in the electoral process as preparations for the next General Election continue.

“To date, no entity, organisation, group or individual has submitted to the Commission any credible evidence supporting any such allegations of illegality and malpractice,” the Commission said.

The electoral body, however, maintained that it would investigate any credible reports of wrongdoing and take action against those found responsible.

It said confirmed cases could lead to disciplinary action, criminal investigations and prosecution in accordance with Kenyan law.

The allegations include claims that some Ugandan nationals can obtain Kenyan identity cards and register as voters through a process involving nearby registration offices.

Other claims suggest that some Kenyan identity documents are being processed at locations within Uganda.

The controversy comes as IEBC works to increase voter registration ahead of the August 2027 General Election.

During the Continuous Voter Registration exercise conducted between September 29, 2025, and April 9, 2026, the commission registered 2,612,725 new voters.

It also processed 49,502 voter transfers and 1,066 applications for changes to personal details.

Kenya had 22.1 million registered voters in the 2022 General Election, with IEBC targeting 28.5 million voters for the 2027 polls.

The commission is also expanding registration services for eligible Kenyans living abroad, increasing the number of countries covered from 12 to 26 to allow more citizens to participate in elections.

IEBC said it would take appropriate action against any proven cases of electoral malpractice.