Vocal Africa Urges ICC to Monitor Kenya Ahead of 2027 General Election

Vocal Africa has called on the International Criminal Court (ICC) to closely monitor Kenya as political tensions, security concerns and human rights risks intensify ahead of the 2027 General Election.

The human rights organisation has written to the ICC Office of the Prosecutor, warning that Kenya’s political and security environment is deteriorating and could create conditions for serious human rights violations and ethnic conflict.

In its letter, Vocal Africa said recent political developments had been marked by alleged ethnic incitement, mobilisation of groups to disrupt political opponents and violent incidents in which security officers have reportedly been implicated.

“The warning signs now emerging must not be ignored until lives have been lost,” the organisation said.

Concerns over security agencies

Vocal Africa also raised concerns about what it described as an apparent lack of sufficient political will or institutional capacity among security agencies to prevent violence, protect victims and hold individuals responsible for organising or financing attacks.

The organisation further criticised key state institutions, including the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC), the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) and the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC).

According to Vocal Africa, the institutions have not done enough to address what it considers growing political and ethnic tensions.

“These institutions appear useless and impotent at a time when their independence, courage and effectiveness are urgently required,” the group said.

Call for ICC monitoring

Vocal Africa wants the ICC to pay particular attention to organised political violence, ethnic incitement and attacks against civilians as the country approaches the 2027 elections.

The organisation has also asked the ICC to receive, preserve and analyse credible information relating to acts that could potentially contribute to crimes falling under the court’s jurisdiction.

The appeal comes amid increased political activity across the country, with youthful groups reportedly disrupting political campaigns involving opposition-aligned politicians.

NCIC summons politicians

The concerns come as the NCIC continues to summon political leaders over remarks it considers potentially inflammatory or seditious.

Among those linked to the summonses are former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma, Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale and Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku, alongside other political figures.

The developments have renewed debate over the role of state institutions in preventing political violence and ethnic tensions before, during and after elections.

Ruto promises peaceful 2027 election

President William Ruto has meanwhile maintained that his administration will ensure the 2027 General Election is conducted without violence or irregularities.

Ruto, who is expected to seek re-election, has pledged to uphold the rule of law and said his government will continue taking action against individuals who promote violence and lawlessness.

With the 2027 election approaching, calls for early intervention and closer monitoring reflect growing concerns over whether Kenya can prevent a repeat of the violence that has accompanied previous electoral cycles.

The coming months are therefore likely to place increased scrutiny on political leaders, security agencies and institutions responsible for protecting national cohesion and ensuring a credible and peaceful electoral process.