Ground Zero Report
Ground Zero is a flagship civic monitoring initiative launched by the International Policy Group (IPG) in partnership with the African Electoral Observation Group. It was developed in response to growing public concern about Kenya’s electoral integrity during one of the most contentious and consequential political seasons in its history—the 2017 General Elections.
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About the Ground Zero Report
Ground Zero delivered weekly field-based reports assessing electoral preparedness, institutional credibility, and security risks across Kenya. Its purpose was twofold: to provide real-time analysis of unfolding election dynamics and to issue evidence-based recommendations for preserving peace, protecting democracy, and preventing electoral violence.
Key insights from critical moments in Kenya’s elections
Featured Reports
Feb 15, 2017 – Anatomy of Election Rigging Claims in Kenya (1988–2017)
Traces the history of rigging allegations, showing how they have become recurring tools of political strategy and posturing—often grounded in partial truths but widely weaponized.
June 23, 2017 – Politicizing Security Towards Elections
Analyzes accusations of voter register manipulation and deployment of security agencies to influence election outcomes. Raises concerns about public trust and militarization of civic space.
Oct 22, 2017 – Kenya’s Irreducible Minimum
Documents tensions leading into the presidential re-run, focusing on opposition boycotts, legal interpretations, and IEBC’s legitimacy crisis following the annulment of the August 8 election.
Documenting Democracy in Real Time
Ground Zero in Focus
A visual journey through Kenya’s 2017 electoral season—capturing civic action, public protests, media coverage, voter registration drives, and key political moments. These images reflect the tension, resilience, and determination of citizens and institutions navigating one of Kenya’s most closely watched elections.
