The DCI has rejected allegations linking its officers to the seizure of election materials at the Uganda border.
The agency disputes claims of a border interception and an officer’s transfer, saying it will take the matter to bodies responsible for media accountability.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has denied claims that its officers intercepted a vehicle carrying election materials near the Uganda border.
The agency also rejected claims that detectives seized IEBC voter registration materials and questioned three people inside the vehicle.
In a statement issued Monday, September 28, the DCI said none of its officers was involved in the alleged incident. It also dismissed claims that an officer investigating electoral malpractice faced pressure before being transferred.
The allegations emerged as Kenya prepares for the 2027 General Election. Meanwhile, the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has separately rejected claims of illegal voter registration and movement of election materials into Uganda.
DCI Rejects Officer Transfer Claims
The DCI disputed claims that one of its officers investigated suspected electoral malpractice involving IEBC materials.
According to the agency, no officer, arrest or transfer matching the reported account exists.
It therefore described the allegations as lacking a factual basis. The directorate also rejected claims that an officer received threats to abandon an investigation or face transfer.
The DCI said the alleged border interception, questioning and seizure did not occur as reported.
IEBC Also Rejects Border Allegations
The DCI’s response follows a separate denial from the IEBC over claims of voter registration malpractice.
On Sunday, IEBC Chairperson Erastus Edung Ethekon said the commission had not received credible evidence supporting claims of illegal voter registration or voter transfers.
The commission also rejected reports that KIEMS kits had been misplaced, intercepted or moved to unauthorised locations.
The two agencies’ statements directly challenge reports that sparked concern over possible electoral malpractice ahead of the 2027 polls.
DCI Raises Election Confidence Concerns
The DCI said unverified claims involving electoral security could undermine public confidence in institutions handling election preparations.
It reiterated its commitment to supporting a free, fair, transparent and credible electoral process.
Additionally, the agency said its officers operate within the Constitution and applicable laws. It maintained that lawful investigations are not abandoned at the direction of individuals.
The DCI’s position is that the reported interception and alleged officer transfer have no factual basis.
Agency Plans Media Standards Complaint
The directorate also complained that it was not given an opportunity to respond before the allegations were broadcast and published.
It urged journalists to verify sensitive claims involving elections and national security before publication.
Furthermore, the DCI said it would raise the matter with relevant statutory bodies responsible for media standards and accountability.
The agency said it respects constitutional media freedom. However, it maintained that accuracy remains important when reporting claims that could affect public confidence in the electoral process.
