Wajir, Kenya – July 13, 2025 – A bombshell declaration by Wajir Woman Representative Fatuma Abdi Jehow has sent shockwaves across Kenya’s political landscape, reigniting fears of electoral malpractice ahead of the 2027 polls. In a brazen public admission, Jehow openly stated that leaders from North Eastern Kenya would rig votes in favour of President William Ruto—even if the region lacked genuine support.
Her remarks, captured in a viral video, have triggered nationwide outrage, with Kenyans demanding accountability and civil society groups calling for an immediate investigation by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC).
“We’ll Steal Votes for Ruto—That’s No Secret”
Speaking at a gathering in Wajir on Saturday, Jehow made the incendiary statement in Swahili:
“Sisi wabunge wa North Eastern maneno ya President, tunasema ‘tutam’, hata kama hatutakua na votes tutamwibia… hio si siri.”
(Translation: “We, MPs from North Eastern, support the President. Even if we don’t have the votes, we will steal them for him… that’s no secret.”)
She further dismissed concerns over the region’s historically low voter turnout, saying:
“Sisi tunangoja debe iletwe, hata kama hatutakuwa na votes, sisi maneyetu ni mafupi.”
(Translation: “We’re waiting for the ballot box to arrive. Even if we don’t have votes, our ways are swift.”)
The implication was clear—some politicians are prepared to manipulate the electoral process to secure victory, regardless of the people’s will.
Public Backlash and Calls for Accountability
The comments have ignited fierce condemnation online, with Kenyans accusing Jehow of openly admitting to electoral fraud.
- #ArrestFatumaJehow trended on X (formerly Twitter), with users demanding her prosecution.
- Civil society groups, including Transparency International Kenya, called for an urgent IEBC probe.
- Opposition leaders seized on the remarks, labelling them proof of a wider rigging plot by the ruling Kenya Kwanza alliance.
Maina Kiai, a prominent human rights activist, tweeted:
“When a sitting MP openly admits to planning election theft, it confirms our worst fears. The 2027 election is already under threat.”
Kindiki’s Defence: “IEBC Cannot Be Manipulated”
Ironically, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki addressed similar concerns just hours earlier in Migori County, where he dismissed opposition claims of planned rigging.
Speaking in Kuria East, Kindiki insisted the IEBC is independent and accused the opposition of “pre-emptive panic.”
“Our opponents are already blackmailing IEBC out of fear. The commission is a referee—it cannot favour anyone.”
“We don’t need rigging. Our record in development will secure our victory.”
His assurances, however, did little to quell public anger after Jehow’s remarks.
A History of Electoral Mistrust in Kenya
Kenya’s elections have long been marred by claims of rigging, violence, and mistrust:
- 2007: Post-election violence left over 1,200 dead after disputed results.
- 2017: The Supreme Court annulled President Uhuru Kenyatta’s win over irregularities.
- 2022: Despite a relatively peaceful process, Ruto’s victory was still contested by Raila Odinga.
Jehow’s statement has now reopened old wounds, raising fears that 2027 could descend into chaos if such rhetoric goes unchecked.
Will IEBC Act? Experts Weigh In
Political analyst Herman Manyora told BBC News:
“This isn’t just a reckless statement—it’s a direct challenge to Kenya’s democracy. If IEBC doesn’t investigate, it risks legitimizing electoral fraud.”
Meanwhile, IEBC Chairperson has yet to issue an official response, but sources say the commission is “reviewing the footage.”
What’s Next?
- Legal Action? Lawyers argue Jehow’s remarks could violate election laws on incitement.
- Political Fallout? Ruto’s camp may distance itself to avoid backlash.
- Public Protests? Activists are mobilizing for nationwide demonstrations.
Conclusion: A Test for Kenya’s Democracy
Fatuma Jehow’s admission has laid bare a dangerous political mindset—one where winning at all costs trumps fair play.
As Kenya marches toward 2027, the question isn’t just about who will win, but whether the election will be free, fair, and credible—or stolen in broad daylight.
The ball is now in IEBC’s court. Will it act, or will Kenyans once again find themselves questioning the legitimacy of their leaders?
