Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has issued a public notice reminding voters, polling officials, and all election observers that photography and video recording inside polling booths is strictly prohibited.
IEBC emphasized that the secrecy and sanctity of the vote must be preserved at all times, warning that any attempt to capture images within voting compartments undermines electoral integrity and may attract serious legal consequences during election proceedings across the country.
Strict Ban on Photography and Video in Polling Booths
The notice further clarifies that such actions are not only discouraged but expressly outlawed under Kenyan electoral law.
According to the Commission, no individual attending any electoral process is permitted to take photographs or record videos within the polling booth, regardless of intent or affiliation.
The restriction is aimed at safeguarding voter privacy, preventing coercion, and ensuring that every citizen exercises their democratic right without undue influence or exposure. IEBC stressed that compliance is mandatory for all participants in the voting process.
IEBC cites Section 7(3)(e) of the Election Offences Act, Number 37 of 2016, which criminalises capturing an image of a marked ballot without lawful excuse.
The provision specifically targets individuals who record such images for financial gain or to demonstrate political allegiance.
The Commission notes that this law is central to maintaining free and fair elections by preventing the misuse of ballot secrecy for manipulation, intimidation, or vote trading in any electoral context.
Severe Penalties for Violations
Violations of the directive constitute an election offence and attract severe penalties.
Offenders are liable to a fine not exceeding Ksh 1 million, imprisonment for a term not exceeding three years, or both.
IEBC urged all voters and accredited persons to adhere strictly to the rules to avoid prosecution and to uphold public confidence in the electoral process.
The Commission reiterated that protecting the secrecy of the ballot remains fundamental to credible elections in Kenya.
Citizens, observers, and party agents were urged to respect polling regulations, cooperate with election officials, and report any violations to maintain public trust in the democratic process.
With these measures, the Commission seeks to reinforce accountability, protect voter privacy, and uphold the credibility of Kenya’s electoral system ahead of 2027 polls.
The public notice forms part of ongoing voter education campaigns nationwide. IEBC encouraged full compliance to avoid legal sanctions and strengthen democratic participation across the country.
