Chebukati says IEBC requires 40.9 Billion to conduct 2022 elections.

IEBC chairman Wafula Chebukati urged the National Treasury to increase the budget allocated to the commission to conduct general elections next year.

According to Chebukati, the IEBC needs a minimum of Ksh 40.9 billion to hold the 2022 elections, but the Treasury has allocated a budget of Ksh 26.34 billion, leaving a shortfall of Ksh 14.57 billion.

“It should be noted that the budget requirement of 40,917 is the lowest level in line with the election activities of the electoral activities plan which is governed by the existing legal system. We urge the National Treasury to provide adequate funding as requested,” Chebukati said.

He was speaking at a press conference of the Kenya Media Sector Staff Group (KMSWG) in Mombasa on Monday.

Chebukati says that out of Ksh 40.9 billion, Ksh 40.329 billion will be used to implement all the activities of the electoral operation plan, while an additional amount estimated at Ksh 588 million is needed to buy used items. In COVID-. 19 protective protocols including thermometer guns, pesticides, soap and laundry parts.

During the seminar, Chebukati reiterated the Commission’s commitment to hold free, fair, transparent and credible general elections in 2022.

He highlighted some of the issues that are the subject of national dialogue and affect the upcoming elections, as well as the two-thirds gender law, transportation and management of election results as well as electoral irregularities and code of conduct.

Regarding respect for the two-thirds gender law, Chebukati said that the list of nominations for political parties for election seats in the Senate and the National Assembly must respect the two-thirds gender law before it can be approved by the Candidate Registration Commission.

“To ensure transparency in the results management process, the Commission will allow access to authorized media at polling stations and counting centers to count, announce, compile and announce results,” said the IEBC president.

On the issue of electoral misconduct, Chebukati said the Commission would fully implement the code of conduct that would come into force during the campaign.

The IEBC is expected to hold the next general election on August 9, 2022.

At the same event, the Kenya Editors Association announced that two presidential debates would be held on July 12, 2022 and July 26, 2022 before the August general election.

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