Tensions are mounting across the country as the Kenya Independent Commissions Workers Union (KICOWU) fires a blistering warning shot at politicians threatening the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), following a firestorm sparked by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s controversial remarks.
In a moment that stunned the nation, Gachagua declared on live television that Kenya “would cease to exist” if the IEBC dared to meddle with the 2027 elections — likening the potential chaos to a “Christmas party.”
“If IEBC tries to rig 2027, there will be no country,” Gachagua said on the Obinna Show. “We will not allow William Ruto to be forced on Kenyans. It will be stopped.”The shocking outburst has drawn fierce condemnation from all quarters — but none more powerful than KICOWU’s.
In a strongly-worded statement issued Saturday, the union blasted Gachagua’s comments as reckless, inflammatory, and a direct threat to national stability.
“This is the kind of rhetoric that fuels bloodshed,” thundered KICOWU Secretary General Njeru Kanyamba. “Politicians should win over voters—not terrorize electoral officers when they fail.”
Kanyamba warned that such statements endanger the lives of IEBC staff, many of whom are union members. He revealed that some former officials have been forced into hiding, while others have fled the country altogether due to death threats.
“We will not sit back and watch our members be used as punching bags,” he said. “This kind of intimidation is not only cowardly—it’s deadly.”
The union demanded immediate intervention from security agencies, urging the Inspector General of Police to guarantee protection for all IEBC personnel now and into the 2027 polls.
They also called on Parliament to expedite the vetting of new IEBC Commissioners, warning that delays could cripple the commission’s ability to prepare for both the upcoming elections and overdue by-elections.
“We’ve seen what happens when political temperatures rise unchecked,” Kanyamba warned. “Let’s not forget 2007. Kenya cannot afford to walk that path again.”The backlash against Gachagua has been swift and fierce.
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, breaking ranks with his former ally, vowed there would be no repeat of the post-election chaos that rocked Kenya in 2007/08.
“There will be no violence in 2027. Not under this government,” Kindiki assured. “Leadership should be about vision—not threats.”Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika didn’t hold back either. In a scathing statement, she accused Gachagua of incitement and desperation.
“This is an incredibly irresponsible statement from someone who should know better,” Kihika said. “Coming from a county that suffered deeply during past electoral violence, this is unacceptable.”
KICOWU is now urging all political figures to weigh their words carefully as the nation marches toward a pivotal election. “Kenya belongs to all of us,” Kanyamba concluded.
“If we let it descend into chaos, no one is safe—not even the loudest voices in the room.”As the 2027 race begins to take shape, this unfolding war of words is sending a chilling reminder across Kenya: the road to power must not be paved with threats
