Is the Judiciary Truly Prepared? 2027 Election Plans Unveiled Amid Cautious Optimism

A silent storm brews behind Kenya’s polished courtrooms as the Judiciary declares its readiness to resolve the looming 2027 election disputes. But even with grand promises, questions linger beneath the surface.

Speaking at the launch of the Judiciary Committee on Elections (JCE) Operational Plan 2025–2028, Chief Justice Martha Koome assured Kenyans of a fair, impartial process. “We are ready,” she said, calling on electoral players like the IEBC and Law Society of Kenya to walk the journey with the courts. She hailed the new plan as a blueprint for safeguarding Kenya’s democracy.

Koome urged unity in delivering credible elections, stressing that electoral justice is a shared duty. She praised the JCE’s shift toward public engagement to counter misinformation, and capacity-building efforts to prepare judicial officers for high-pressure cases. The CJ also acknowledged the leadership transition at JCE from Justice Mohammed Ibrahim to Justice Njoki Ndung’u, signalling a fresh yet steady approach.

Justice Ibrahim called the plan a roadmap to institutional focus, while Justice Ndung’u warned Parliament against late electoral law changes that could cripple preparedness. “Legislation done close to polls undermines stability,” she said.

Chief Registrar Winfridah Mokaya described the Judiciary’s role as not just resolving conflict, but pre-empting it. She emphasised innovation, planning, and integrity in building a credible dispute resolution system. With national trials set to begin, attention now shifts to how this plan will be executed.

Despite the optimistic outlook, Kenya’s history of post-election petitions and political tension looms large. Will this plan weather real pressure, or crumble under controversy? The Judiciary’s promise is loud—but only time, and a heated ballot, will reveal if its house is truly in order.