The stage is set for a high-stakes mini-poll as the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) officially closes the candidate registration dossier for the upcoming by-elections slated for February 26, 2026.

After two days of intense vetting, paperwork, and political posturing, the electoral body has cleared a slate of candidates to battle for the vacant seats in Mbeere North and Isiolo South constituencies, as well as several wards. The conclusion of this exercise marks the firing of the starting gun for a frantic 30-day campaign period that promises to test the political temperature of the country.

The Contenders and the Pretenders

In Mbeere North, the race has narrowed down to a titanic clash of coalitions. The ruling UDA party has fielded heavyweights, while the opposition is banking on local dynamics to pull an upset. The clearance process was not without drama, with several independent candidates facing hurdles over symbol selection and compliance with the stringent Chapter Six integrity requirements.

"We have verified all documents and we are satisfied," said the Returning Officer at the Siakago tallying center. "Now the ball is in the court of the politicians. We expect a campaign devoid of violence."

• Litmus Test for 2027: Political analysts are viewing these by-elections as a dry run for the 2027 General Election. The performance of the major parties will be scrutinized for signs of waning influence or surging momentum. A win for the government consolidates its grip; a loss would energize the opposition.
• Voter Apathy Concern: The IEBC’s biggest headache remains voter turnout. By-elections historically suffer from low participation. The Commission has rolled out a voter education drive, but with the high cost of living occupying the minds of Kenyans, convincing them to queue for a ballot paper will be a tall order.

The Logistics Machine

Behind the scenes, the IEBC logistics machine is whirring into life. Ballot papers are being designed, Kiems kits are being serviced, and thousands of poll officials are being recruited. After the contested 2022 polls, the Commission knows it is under the microscope. Every process, from registration to the final tally, must be transparent to rebuild public trust.

As the candidates hit the campaign trail, the message to the voters is simple: this is your chance to hire your representative. Choose wisely, for the consequences of a bad choice will last for the remainder of the term.