The Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC) has criticized proposed changes to the Elections Act that could reduce transparency in announcing election results. The commission expressed concerns over Parliament’s handling of amendments to the Elections (Amendment) Bill, 2024, in a press statement on October 22, 2026.
A court in Kenya has ordered the state to respond within seven days to a petition challenging the rules around livestreaming election results. The petition, filed by Njomo, seeks to prevent the National Assembly and Senate from advancing the Elections (Amendment) (No. 2) Bill, 2024. The bill, also known as the Senate Bill, aims to modify how election results are broadcasted.
The KHRC’s concerns stem from fears that the proposed changes may limit public access to real-time election data, potentially undermining trust in the electoral process. The commission has called for greater transparency and accountability in the handling of the bill.
This dispute follows ongoing debates about the role of media in election monitoring. The current rules allow for the livestreaming of results, a practice seen as crucial for ensuring public oversight. The court’s order highlights the legal challenges surrounding the proposed amendments, which have sparked controversy among civil society groups and political stakeholders.
The Elections (Amendment) Bill, 2024, has been a point of contention since its introduction, with critics arguing it could weaken democratic accountability. The court’s decision to grant the state seven days to respond underscores the legal and political significance of the issue ahead of the 2027 General Election.
