Institutionalising technology for accountability in elections management in Kenya

Abstract

This study examines the role of electoral technology in developing an accountable election management system by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) in Kenya, between 2010 and 2023. Although there has been progress, the IEBC faces electoral implementation challenges. The level of electoral accountability is low, illustrative of an institutional culture gap and ineffective enforcement mechanisms. The IEBC lacks a well-articulated policy on electoral technology, including low public participation. Nonetheless, the uptake of electoral technology continues to pick momentum, in each electoral cycle. The study argues that the IEBC should establish consistent and long-term institutional policies and standards for electoral technology. These standards should facilitate predictable practices, to achieve an accountable electoral process, with a self-sustaining institutional culture which outlives the electoral body and inspires stability and public confidence. The study further argues that the trust deficit in the electoral system can be bridged by electoral technology systems, more accountable than manual processes because the human element is mitigated or reduced. The study illustrates that despite the recurring pitfalls such as a low understanding of electoral technology, there is progress, although the policy, legislative, and institutional frameworks demonstrate missed opportunities in easing democratic consolidation. Trends from 2013 to 2022 demonstrate that the manner of implementation of electoral technology threatens the very democracy it is meant to safeguard. This is due to a lack of proper planning, consistent procurement practices, training of stakeholders and inconsistent electoral technology practices. The study contributes to the literature on electoral technology by exploring the centrality of accountability in the electoral process, which is an area hardly explored. It provides recommendations taking into account jurisprudence, existing legal frameworks, and emerging technologies. Chapter one introduces the study, while Chapter two explores the legal and institutional frameworks. Chapter three is a review of jurisprudence, while Chapter four provides key findings, recommendations and conclusions.