IEBC plans to spend Ksh 1.1 Billion on officials meals during the 2027 election day

The proposal was presented to a parliamentary committee, where lawmakers expressed shock and criticized the figure as extravagant, questioning the nature and justification for such a high cost on food alone. IEBC officials did not provide a detailed breakdown of the meals—such as whether it covers breakfast, lunch, supper, snacks, or provisions for training periods—but emphasized the need to sustain thousands of presiding officers, clerks, and other temporary staff working long hours during the high-stakes polling process.

This Ksh 1.1 billion line item forms part of a broader budget that includes major expenditures like Ksh 6.2 billion for replacing obsolete KIEMS kits, Ksh 5.9 billion for printing ballot papers, Ksh 4.9 billion for logistics, and Ksh 12.4 billion for wages. The commission argues that adequate funding is essential for a credible, efficient, and timely election, covering everything from voter registration updates to results transmission. However, MPs have described the overall proposal as an "expensive election," highlighting public concerns over fiscal responsibility, especially given ongoing economic pressures and competing national priorities like education and healthcare.

The revelation has sparked widespread debate on social media and public forums, with many Kenyans questioning the value for money and speculating on what kind of catering could justify the amount for a single day. Some former poll officials have defended similar provisions in past elections, noting the demanding nature of duties that often extend into multiple meals and refreshments at tallying centers. As the budget awaits parliamentary approval, the IEBC faces pressure to justify the allocation and demonstrate transparency to maintain public trust in the electoral process ahead of 2027.