A contentious proposal to eliminate the compulsory livestreaming of election results from polling stations has brought the Elections (Amendment) Bill, 2024, into sharp focus. The bill, which was approved by the Senate in December 2024 and is now pending before the National Assembly, aims to remove the legal obligation for the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to provide real-time broadcasts of results as they are announced.
This move has ignited a debate about the transparency and credibility of the upcoming 2027 General Election. Proponents argue the change could streamline the electoral process, while critics warn it may reduce public confidence in the electoral outcomes.
Key Points of the Bill
- Repeals the requirement for IEBC to livestream results at polling stations.
- Passed by the Senate and awaiting National Assembly consideration.
- Raises concerns about transparency and electoral integrity.
As the bill progresses through Parliament, stakeholders, including political parties, civil society groups, and election observers, are expected to engage in vigorous discussions over the implications of this legislative change.
