In a deeply polarizing and controversial statement, Wajir Woman Representative Fatuma Abdi Jehow has ignited a firestorm of condemnation across Kenya after openly declaring that leaders from the North Eastern region are prepared to rig the 2027 General Election to secure President William Ruto’s re-election.
The remarks, made during the 60th anniversary celebration of Wajir High School on Saturday, July 12, 2025, have sparked widespread outrage, with Kenyans and electoral authorities denouncing the comments as reckless, divisive, and a direct threat to the nation’s democratic integrity.
The Controversial Remarks
Speaking at the event in Wajir, Jehow did not mince words, boldly asserting that North Eastern MPs would go to extreme lengths to ensure President Ruto remains in power, even if it meant resorting to unethical tactics.
“Sisi wabunge wa North Eastern maneno ya President, tunasema ‘tutam’, hata kama hatutakua na votes tutamwibia… hio si siri,” she declared, loosely translating to, “We, the MPs from North Eastern, say we will deliver the President, even if we don’t have the votes, we will steal them… that’s not a secret.”
In an even more provocative statement, Jehow dismissed concerns about the region’s historically low voter turnout, suggesting that votes could be “imported” to secure a victory.
“Even if it means importing votes from Somalia, we will do it. We must rig the election for William Ruto in 2027,” she reportedly said.
She further added, “Sisi tunangoja debe iletwe, hata kama hatutakuwa na votes, sisi maneno yetu ni mafupi,” implying that some MPs were ready to manipulate the electoral process to deliver victory regardless of actual voter support.
Nationwide Condemnation
The remarks have triggered a wave of criticism from Kenyans across the political spectrum, with many taking to social media and public platforms to demand accountability.
Hashtags such as #FatumaJehow and #NoToVoteRigging have trended on X, reflecting the public’s anger and concern over the implications of her statements.
Citizens, civil society groups, and political analysts have described the comments as not only irresponsible but also a dangerous undermining of Kenya’s fragile democratic framework.
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) swiftly issued a statement condemning Jehow’s remarks, labeling them “unacceptable and reckless in a democratic society.”
The Commission emphasized that such utterances risk eroding public trust in Kenya’s electoral system, which has faced significant scrutiny in past elections.
“The IEBC urges all Kenyans to disregard and disassociate from such statements and instead place their confidence in the Commission’s mandate to conduct free, fair, and credible elections,” the statement read.
The IEBC also hinted at potential investigations into the remarks, noting that incitement to electoral malpractice could have legal consequences.
A Nation Divided
Jehow’s comments come at a time when Kenya is grappling with deep political divisions and a growing demand for electoral reforms.
The country’s history of contentious elections, marked by allegations of rigging and post-election violence, has left many citizens wary of any rhetoric that undermines the democratic process.
Political analysts argue that Jehow’s statements are particularly damaging given the ongoing efforts to rebuild trust in Kenya’s institutions and foster national unity.
“These remarks are not just careless; they are dangerous,” said Dr. Njeri Kinyanjui, a political commentator based in Nairobi.
“At a time when Kenyans are calling for transparency and accountability in elections, a sitting MP joking about rigging is a slap in the face to every voter who believes in democracy. It’s a betrayal of the public’s trust and a mockery of the sacrifices made to uphold democratic principles.”
Jehow’s History and Political Context
Fatuma Jehow’s own election as Wajir Woman Representative has not been without controversy.
Her 2022 victory faced legal challenges and allegations of irregularities, which critics now point to as ironic given her recent comments.
Many have questioned her credibility to speak on electoral matters, with some calling for her to issue a public apology and retract her statements.
“Leadership is about inspiring confidence and fostering unity, not stoking division or making light of serious issues like election rigging,” said Mumbi Wanjiku, a civil society activist.
“For someone whose own election was questioned, Jehow should be the last person to speak so flippantly about undermining the democratic process.”
The North Eastern region, which Jehow claims to represent in her remarks, has historically been a stronghold for certain political factions, including President Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA).
However, her suggestion that the region’s leaders would resort to “importing votes” or other underhanded tactics has drawn sharp criticism from within the region itself.
Community leaders and residents have expressed embarrassment and frustration, arguing that the remarks paint the region in a negative light and undermine its legitimate contributions to national politics.
Calls for Accountability
Kenyans are now demanding swift action against Jehow, with many calling for her to face disciplinary measures from both her political party and the National Assembly.
Some have urged the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to probe whether her remarks constitute incitement or a violation of electoral laws.
Others have called for her to be censured by Parliament for bringing disrepute to the institution.
“This is not how a leader seeks publicity,” read a widely shared post on X. “Playing with the emotions of a wounded nation for political relevance is shameful and unacceptable. Fatuma Jehow owes Kenyans an apology and must face the consequences of her reckless words.”
The Bigger Picture
Jehow’s comments have reignited debates about the state of Kenya’s electoral system and the need for comprehensive reforms.
Civil society organizations have long advocated for stronger safeguards to prevent electoral malpractices, including enhanced voter education, transparent vote tallying processes, and stricter penalties for electoral offenses.
The controversy has also highlighted the role of political leaders in shaping public discourse and the importance of responsible rhetoric in a polarized society.
As Kenya approaches the 2027 General Election, the pressure is mounting on the IEBC and other stakeholders to ensure a credible and transparent process.
The nation’s history of electoral disputes, including the annulled 2017 presidential election and the violent aftermath of previous polls, serves as a stark reminder of the stakes involved.
A Call for Responsible Leadership
At a time when Kenyans are yearning for unity, accountability, and a credible electoral process, Fatuma Jehow’s remarks have struck a nerve, reminding the nation of the fragility of its democratic institutions.
Political leaders, analysts, and citizens agree that leadership is earned through service, integrity, and a commitment to the public good—not through divisive rhetoric or attempts to undermine the will of the people.
As the fallout from Jehow’s statements continues, the spotlight remains on her next steps. Will she retract her remarks and offer an apology, or will she double down on her controversial stance?
For now, Kenyans are united in their demand for responsible leadership and a democratic process that reflects the true will of the people.
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