The Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) has issued a strong warning to Parliament over proposed changes to Kenya’s electoral laws, cautioning that restricting public access to presidential election results could undermine confidence in the 2027 General Election.
The bishops have particularly opposed proposals seeking to remove livestreaming of presidential vote tallies, arguing that Kenyans deserve transparency throughout the electoral process. They have also challenged the IEBC, Judiciary and political leaders to take their responsibilities seriously to prevent a repeat of past election-related tensions.
Highlights
- Catholic bishops have urged Parliament to reject proposals restricting livestreaming of presidential vote tallies.
- KCCB says electoral reforms should promote transparency and public confidence.
- IEBC has been challenged to improve voter registration, logistics and election preparedness.
- The Judiciary has been urged to resolve electoral disputes fairly and promptly.
- Archbishop Maurice Muhatia Makumba signed the bishops’ statement following a meeting in Embu.
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Catholic Bishops Oppose Proposed Election Changes
The Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops has called on Parliament to reject proposed electoral amendments that could limit public access to presidential election results ahead of the 2027 polls.
In a statement released on Wednesday, November 11, 2026, the religious leaders expressed concern over proposals seeking to prohibit the livestreaming of presidential vote tallies.
They argued that introducing such changes at this stage could create unnecessary political tension and raise questions about the credibility of the electoral process.
The bishops urged the Speakers of both Houses of Parliament to prevent the introduction of legislation that could divide Kenyans or weaken confidence in the country’s democratic institutions.
They maintained that lawmakers should prioritise reforms that improve the electoral framework rather than introduce restrictions that could limit access to important election information.
Parliament Told to Protect Public Access to Results
The clerics also challenged Parliament to reconsider any proposals that could interfere with transparency during the election period.
They argued that citizens, political parties and other stakeholders should have access to information that allows them to follow the electoral process and understand how results are handled.
The bishops further called for the fast-tracking of legislation designed to strengthen the electoral framework while protecting peace and stability before, during and after the elections.
Their concerns come amid an ongoing debate over proposed changes to the legal requirement for livestreaming election results. Citizen Digital+2
IEBC Challenged to Strengthen Election Preparations
Beyond their concerns about Parliament, the bishops placed responsibility on the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to demonstrate its readiness for the next General Election.
They called on the electoral agency to improve several critical areas, including:
- Voter registration and verification of the voters’ register.
- Availability of election materials and logistical arrangements.
- Proper training of election officials.
- Accurate verification and announcement of election results.
- Timely and effective handling of electoral complaints.
The clerics further insisted that IEBC must operate independently without interference from politicians or other influential individuals.
They maintained that the commission should be allowed to carry out its constitutional responsibilities without intimidation or attempts to influence its decisions.
Judiciary Urged to Prevent Repeat of Past Election Violence
The bishops also called on the Judiciary to approach election-related disputes with fairness, independence and urgency.
They warned that unresolved electoral disagreements could create serious consequences, pointing to previous election periods in Kenya that were followed by deaths, destruction of property and prolonged political divisions.
They urged political leaders to conduct peaceful campaigns, respect democratic institutions and avoid statements or actions that could provoke hostility among communities.
Archbishop Maurice Muhatia Leads Bishops’ Meeting in Embu
The statement was signed by KCCB Chairman Archbishop Maurice Muhatia Makumba following a gathering of Catholic bishops at the John Cardinal Njue Pastoral Centre in Embu.
The meeting provided an opportunity for the church leaders to discuss the country’s political environment and preparations for the 2027 elections.
The bishops reiterated that electoral reforms should bring Kenyans together by strengthening accountability, transparency and confidence in democratic institutions.
As the country moves closer to the next General Election, their message places Parliament, IEBC and the Judiciary under renewed public scrutiny.
With the 2027 General Election approaching, the biggest question is whether Kenya’s political institutions can deliver a process that voters trust, regardless of who eventually wins. Transparency is not just an election requirement; it is the foundation of public confidence in democracy.
