Kenya's media, governance, and electoral stakeholders have called for timely, accurate, and accessible information as the nation prepares for the 2027 General Election, emphasizing the need to combat misinformation and disinformation. Nora Mbagathi, Executive Director of the Katiba Institute, reiterated that access to information is a constitutional right, stating, "It is our right to get the information in an easy and accessible way. It is our information. It is our right." She urged public bodies to take responsibility for providing information proactively rather than waiting for formal requests. Eric Oduor, Secretary General of the Kenya Union of Journalists, highlighted that Article 35 of the Constitution and access-to-information legislation have strengthened citizens' ability to demand accountability from institutions, calling for the protection of these freedoms as part of Kenya's democratic framework.
Sheila Masinde, Executive Director at Transparency International Kenya, stressed that accurate information is essential for transparency, accountability, and informed public participation. She emphasized that institutions must ensure information is not only available but also accurate, timely, and disseminated through accessible channels. Chrispine Owiye, Director of Legal Services at the Independent, Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), stated the electoral agency recognizes the importance of verified information ahead of the 2027 election, urging collaboration between institutions, media, and civil society to counter misinformation. John Cox Lorionokou, Registrar of Political Parties, outlined platforms such as the Integrated Political Party Management System, e-Citizen, and 13 regional offices to facilitate access to electoral data, advising journalists to seek clarification from his office for accurate interpretations of political processes.
Maina Muiruri, Chairman of the Media Council of Kenya, emphasized the media's responsibility to verify information before publication, warning that failure to uphold professional standards risks eroding public trust. Charles Dulo, Chairperson of the Commission on Administrative Justice, called for stronger information-management systems and proactive disclosure by public institutions, advocating for formats that ensure accessibility for all citizens. Collectively, stakeholders reaffirmed the need for collaboration among media, civil society, public institutions, and duty bearers to uphold information integrity and strengthen confidence in Kenya's democratic processes ahead of the 2027 General Election.
The call for accurate information comes amid heightened concerns about the role of artificial intelligence-generated content and manipulated material in undermining electoral transparency. Participants highlighted the importance of institutional accountability, legal frameworks, and public engagement in safeguarding the integrity of Kenya's democratic institutions as the country approaches its next general election.