Commission Declares Full Preparedness for Politically Charged Polls

The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has finalised preparations for 24 by-elections scheduled for Thursday, November 27, 2025, assuring the public of a secure and transparent process. In a comprehensive update issued from its Nairobi headquarters on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, the commission detailed the last-minute measures governing the high-stakes polls, which include one senatorial seat, six parliamentary constituencies, and 17 county assembly wards. These elections are widely viewed as a crucial barometer of the country's political mood and a significant test for the newly constituted commission under Chairperson Erastus Ethekon.

Key Regulations and Voter Instructions

In his final briefing ahead of the polls, Chairperson Ethekon confirmed that all election materials, polling officials, and security personnel have been dispatched to their respective stations. Polling stations are scheduled to open at 6:00 AM EAT and close at 5:00 PM EAT. The IEBC has clarified that any voter in the queue by 5:00 PM will be permitted to cast their ballot to ensure no registered citizen is disenfranchised. Voter identification will be strictly electronic, using the Kenya Integrated Election Management System (KIEMS) kits. The official campaign period concluded on Monday, November 24, 2025, at 6:00 PM EAT, and any form of political campaigning is now prohibited until after the polling exercise is complete.

National Political Implications of Key Races

The by-elections are set to fill vacancies that have arisen from deaths, cabinet appointments, and court nullifications. The outcomes are expected to reshape political alliances and gauge the influence of key national leaders ahead of the 2027 General Election. The most keenly watched contests include:

• Baringo County (Senate): This election will fill the senatorial seat, with significant implications for political control in the Rift Valley.
• Mbeere North Constituency: This race is a major battleground, triggered by the appointment of the former MP, Geoffrey Ruku, to a cabinet position. It is seen as a direct test of influence between President William Ruto's administration and emerging opposition forces.
• Malava and Ugunja Constituencies: The Malava seat became vacant following the death of its MP, while the Ugunja vacancy was created by a cabinet appointment. These polls are critical for gauging the political clout of Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi in the Western region and ODM's enduring strength in its traditional strongholds.
• Kasipul Constituency: This by-election has been marked by heightened tensions and violence, leading to calls for enhanced security to ensure a peaceful process.
• Other Constituencies: Polls will also be held in Banissa and Magarini constituencies.

Security and Integrity Measures

The IEBC has collaborated closely with the National Police Service to ensure a secure electoral environment. In a meeting with the Siaya County Security Team, IEBC Vice Chairperson Fahima Abdallah praised the cooperative efforts that have fostered a calm atmosphere in the region. Similar security arrangements are in place across all 24 electoral areas. Chairperson Ethekon urged polling officials to remain firm and execute their duties in accordance with the law. "Be firm and do your job as guided by law. When we succeed, it will be for our country," he stated during a meeting with officials at the Kasipul Tallying Centre on Wednesday. A total of 181 candidates have been cleared by the commission to contest across the various seats. The commission will be using the certified voter register from June 21, 2022, for these elections.

A Litmus Test for 2027

Political analysts concur that these by-elections are more than just an exercise to fill vacant seats; they are a crucial stress test for the electoral system and the political players involved. The results will likely inform strategic realignments, particularly regarding President Ruto's choice of partners and potential running mate for the 2027 elections. For the opposition, the polls offer a chance to demonstrate growing momentum and capitalize on any shifts in public sentiment. As Kenyans in these 24 areas head to the polls, the nation watches closely, aware that the outcomes could have a lasting impact on the country's political trajectory.