Aden Duale. Photo/Courtesy
Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has downplayed concerns about a possible constitutional crisis ahead of the 2027 elections, responding to warnings from Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi over delayed electoral boundaries review.
Mudavadi had cautioned that Kenya risks legal complications because the 2010 Constitution requires constituency and ward boundaries to be reviewed every eight to twelve years—a process that has not been completed within the stipulated timelines.
He suggested that failure to act could open the door to court challenges that might disrupt the 2027 polls.
In a statement on X, Duale countered these claims, stressing that the matter is legally managed and does not threaten the electoral calendar.
He referenced a Supreme Court advisory opinion delivered in September 2025, which clarified the constitutional procedure but left the question unresolved due to the timing of the case.
“The Supreme Court expressly noted that because the issue was brought before the IEBC was fully constituted, it could not give full guidance at the time,” Duale wrote.
“Once the new IEBC is in place, the Commission should seek a fresh advisory opinion from the Court. There is therefore no constitutional crisis.”
Duale’s clarification underscores the judiciary’s role in safeguarding Kenya’s electoral process.
By leaving the issue open, the Supreme Court provided a structured legal path for addressing delays in boundary reviews without disrupting planned elections.
Political analysts note that delays in electoral reforms often generate public anxiety, especially in communities dependent on local governance for development projects and service delivery.
Duale’s intervention reassures both political stakeholders and citizens that constitutional mechanisms remain intact and functional.
The Health CS urged the public and political actors to respect established legal procedures, emphasizing that the timeline question is a procedural matter, not a political emergency.
His remarks also highlight the responsibility of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission to seek timely guidance from the courts once fully constituted.
With the 2027 elections approaching, Duale’s statement is likely to temper speculation over legal risks, while reminding political parties, civic groups, and voters that adherence to institutional processes remains the key to a smooth electoral cycle.