Kenya: Battle looms over plan to scrap livestreaming of election results

A contentious proposal to eliminate the mandatory livestreaming of election results from polling stations has placed the Elections (Amendment) Bill, 2024, at the center of a brewing political battle. The bill, which the Senate approved in December 2024, is now awaiting consideration by the National Assembly. Its core aim is to repeal Section 39 of the Elections Act, removing the legal obligation for the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to establish a system for broadcasting results as they are announced at polling stations. This proposed change has ignited concerns regarding the transparency of the 2027 General Election. Critics argue that removing livestreaming could undermine public trust and create opportunities for electoral malpractice. Proponents of the bill, however, may argue for different reasons, though these are not detailed in the provided text. The debate highlights ongoing tensions surrounding electoral processes in Kenya. The requirement for livestreaming was introduced to enhance transparency and accountability, allowing citizens and observers to follow the tabulation of results in near real-time. Scrapping this provision could be seen as a step backward in safeguarding electoral integrity. As the bill moves to the National Assembly, a significant legislative contest is anticipated. The outcome will likely shape the landscape of electoral transparency and public confidence in Kenya's democratic process.