A new study reveals that Kenya's elections are among the most expensive in Africa and globally, driven by factors including incumbent re-election bids and low public trust in the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC).

• In 2017, the cost per registered voter was approximately Sh2,124, totaling Sh65 billion, largely due to incumbent President Uhuru Kenyatta seeking re-election and the procurement of Kiems kits.
• The cost per voter dropped to Sh1,649 in 2022, with a total expenditure of Sh47 billion during a succession contest.
• The study suggests that high costs are exacerbated by a lack of trust, forcing electoral bodies to "buy" credibility through expensive assurances and technology, with a similar high-cost scenario projected for 2027.