The Saturday edition of The Standard has placed Kenya’s electoral commission at the centre of its lead story, carrying the bold headline “Selective Justice.”
The newspaper argues that the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) is facing growing accusations of bias, selective enforcement of electoral laws and political capture as the country gradually shifts its focus to the 2027 General Election.
According to the publication, the ongoing Ol Kalou parliamentary by-election has become a major political battleground, exposing what critics describe as inconsistent application of the Electoral Code of Conduct.
The newspaper claims that while opposition figures have faced swift disciplinary action, allegations involving leaders allied to the government have not attracted similar enforcement, raising questions over the commission’s impartiality.
The front page highlights recent action taken against Kipipiri MP Wanjiku Muhia, who was fined Ksh1.5 million by the IEBC over remarks the commission ruled breached the Electoral Code of Conduct.
At the same time, the newspaper points to allegations involving Nakuru Town East MP David Gikaria, who has been summoned after publicly admitting to distributing money during campaigns in Ol Kalou.
The publication also references claims involving former Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria, alleging that government-backed development projects and distribution of various items during the by-election campaigns have fuelled accusations that state resources are being used for political advantage.
Quoting critics, including Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, the newspaper argues that the commission risks losing public confidence if it is seen to punish some politicians while appearing reluctant to act against others accused of more serious electoral violations.
The Standard warns that the manner in which the IEBC handles the Ol Kalou by-election could significantly influence public trust in the commission ahead of the 2027 General Election, with increasing calls for the electoral body to apply the law equally to all candidates and political parties regardless of their affiliations.
