Kenyans who do not have university degrees can still contest for several top elective positions in the 2027 General Election, the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has clarified.
IEBC Commissioner Ann Nderitu said a university degree is currently not a requirement for people seeking to become president, governor or Member of Parliament.
The clarification comes as many Kenyans prepare to enter the political race ahead of the 2027 General Election. Some potential candidates had been worried that they could be blocked from contesting because they did not have university degrees.
Nderitu explained that the current legal position does not allow IEBC to enforce the degree requirement during the nomination process. This follows court decisions that declared parts of the Elections Act requiring degrees for certain elective positions unconstitutional.
She said that, as things stand, the commission cannot demand a university degree from candidates seeking the presidency, governor positions or parliamentary seats.
However, candidates must still meet other requirements set by the Constitution and election laws. These include meeting citizenship requirements, being registered voters and satisfying other conditions applicable to the particular position.
The issue of academic qualifications has been debated for several years. The requirement was challenged in court before the 2022 General Election, with petitioners arguing that it could unfairly prevent some Kenyans from exercising their political rights.
The courts later found the relevant provision unconstitutional, citing constitutional principles including equality and non-discrimination.
The latest IEBC position could open the door for more Kenyans to consider running for office in 2027.
It also comes at a time when political parties and aspirants are already preparing for the next election.
However, the issue of education requirements could still change if Parliament introduces new legislation or if further court decisions are made before the nomination period.
For now, candidates without university degrees who meet the other legal requirements can begin preparing to contest for president, governor or parliamentary positions in the 2027 elections.
The clarification is expected to attract attention among aspiring politicians who had been uncertain about whether their academic qualifications would prevent them from appearing on the ballot.