Voters in 24 electoral areas across Kenya are heading to the polls today, Thursday, November 27, 2025, to elect new representatives in a series of by-elections viewed as a crucial barometer for the country's political landscape ahead of the 2027 General Election. The mini-polls are being held to fill one senatorial seat, six National Assembly positions, and 17 Member of County Assembly (MCA) wards. The vacancies arose from various circumstances, including deaths of incumbents, appointments to state offices, and court-ordered nullifications of previous election results.

The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), under its new chairperson Erastus Ethekon, has assured the nation of its preparedness to conduct a free, fair, and transparent electoral process. Polling stations opened at 6:00 AM EAT and are scheduled to close at 5:00 PM EAT, with provisions to extend voting time in case of delays. The IEBC has dispatched election materials and personnel, and deployed two police officers to each polling station to ensure security.

Key Political Battlegrounds

These by-elections have transformed into a national political showdown, serving as the first major electoral test for President William Ruto's government and a newly formed opposition coalition. Several contests are being keenly watched as they pit high-profile political figures and their respective parties against each other.

In Mbeere North, Embu County, the parliamentary race is seen as a test of political dominance in the Mt. Kenya region. Deputy President Kithure Kindiki is leading the campaign for the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) candidate, while the opposition has rallied behind its contender. Similarly, the Malava constituency race in Kakamega County is a critical test of influence for Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi and the UDA against the opposition-backed Democratic Action Party–Kenya (DAP-K).

The Kasipul constituency by-election in Homa Bay County has been marred by violence, with clashes between rival supporters on November 6, 2025, resulting in two deaths. This has raised significant concerns about electoral security. The Baringo County senatorial by-election, occasioned by the death of Senator William Cheptumo, is another key race.

Electoral Integrity and Preparedness

This series of by-elections is the first major undertaking for the newly appointed IEBC, led by Chairperson Erastus Ethekon, and is considered a significant stress test of its operational readiness. The commission has cleared a total of 181 candidates for the 24 contests. The official campaign period concluded on Monday, November 24, 2025.

The IEBC has faced challenges, including a reported funding deficit of over 200 million shillings as of September 2025, which threatened to impact some of the by-elections. Despite this, officials have expressed confidence in their preparations. IEBC CEO Marjan Hussein confirmed that polling clerks have been trained and materials delivered. Chairperson Ethekon has issued stern warnings against electoral malpractice and violence, prohibiting candidates from bringing supporters to tallying centers to ensure peace. He also projected a voter turnout of around 70%.

Wider Implications for Kenya

Political analysts and stakeholders view these mini-polls as more than just filling vacant seats; they are a rehearsal for the 2027 General Election. The outcomes are expected to trigger significant political realignments, influencing future alliances and power-sharing deals. For President Ruto, the results will serve as a barometer of his allies' political influence in their respective regions. Human rights organizations have described the by-elections as “the most significant stress test of our electoral ecosystem before 2027.” The successful and peaceful conduct of these polls is seen as crucial for maintaining public confidence in Kenya's democratic processes.

The electoral areas with by-elections include the constituencies of Ugunja, Mbeere North, Kasipul, Magarini, Malava, and Banisa. The 17 MCA wards are spread across Samburu, Nandi, Tana River, Garissa, Nairobi, Kakamega, Elgeyo Marakwet, Machakos, Narok, Kajiado, Uasin Gishu, Nyamira, and Turkana counties.