Kalonzo urges use of technology for free and fair elections

Wiper Leader Kalonzo Musyoka with Deputy Chief of Staff in charge of performance and delivery Management in the Executive Office of the President Eliud Owalo during a Regional Conference on the use of AI, Digital and Social Media in Elections held on 3rd December 3, 2024. [Benard Orwongo, Standard]

Wiper party leaderKalonzo Musyoka has called for the adoption of technology in the electoral process in the country, highlighting its potential to enhance transparency and fairness.

Kalonzo stated that while technology could be a game-changer, it must align with the fundamental principles of free, fair, and verifiable elections.

“Electoral technologies should facilitate, rather than compromise, democracy. Democratic elections can only be deemed so when the processes and outcomes are above board. This means elections must reflect the will of the people,” he said.

He was speaking at a regional conference on artificial intelligence (AI) and digital media in elections in Nairobi.

Kalonzo reflected on the turbulent electoral history of the country, marked by disputes and violence since the return of multiparty democracy in 1991. He noted that the conflicts often stemmed from mistrust and a lack of transparency in the electoral process.

To address these challenges, he urged stakeholders to ensure that technology fosters electoral justice and credibility.

Further, the Wiper leader emphasised the need for early preparations, including the reconstitution of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC). With less than three years until the 2027 General Election, Kalonzo criticised the delays in operationalising the IEBC.

“I urge those who are standing in the way of reconstituting the IEBC to see the bigger picture. They should set aside their narrow, selfish interests in favour of the greater good of the nation. Please, allow us to reconstitute the IEBC as soon as possible. We want the commission to begin working towards the credible use of technology, among other preparatory tasks, in readiness for a credible election,” said Kalonzo.

Kalonzo acknowledged the growing influence of younger, tech-savvy voters, noting that Generation Z and Millennials will form the largest voting demographic in 2027. He urged electoral managers to adapt technologies to meet the expectations and realities of this generation.

“It is not just about people adapting to technology; it is also about technology adapting to the people,” said Kalonzo.

The former Vice-President also called for comprehensive voter education, ensuring that citizens understand and trust the technologies used in elections.

“Electoral laws in Kenya have prescribed that elections should be conducted in a manner that is simple, verifiable, free, and fair.

‘‘As the country steadily embraces digital platforms for elections, these variables should never be lost. Together, the four variables amount to what is called Electoral Justice,” said Kalonzo.

He added: “Verifiability of electoral processes and outcomes easily constitutes the most contestable of the four ingredients in an exercise that is intended to be simple, verifiable, free, and fair.”