NAIROBI – Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has assured the nation of heightened security measures for 24 by-elections scheduled for this Thursday, November 27, 2025, vowing that authorities will act decisively against any attempts to instigate violence. The statement comes as the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) finalizes preparations for the polls, which are seen as a significant democratic test ahead of the 2027 General Election.

The series of by-elections will be held in one county for a Senate seat, seven constituencies for Members of Parliament, and 16 wards for Members of County Assembly (MCAs). The vacancies have arisen from various causes, including court nullifications, deaths of incumbents, and appointments to other state offices. According to the IEBC, the polls will take place in Baringo County (Senate), and the constituencies of Banissa, Kasipul, Magarini, Malava, Mbeere North, and Ugunja. A total of 181 candidates have been cleared to contest.

Speaking on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, during the final day of campaigns, Deputy President Kindiki emphasized the government's commitment to a peaceful electoral process. "The government will ensure the safety of all voters," he stated, urging residents to participate in large numbers. "Every Kenyan must be allowed to exercise their right to choose their leaders without any form of threat."

Prof. Kindiki, who was sworn in as Deputy President on November 1, 2024, following the impeachment of his predecessor, brings extensive experience from his previous role as Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration, where he oversaw major security sector reforms. His tenure at the Interior Ministry included initiatives like the Police Equipment Modernization programme and enhancing the fight against banditry.

Heightened Tensions and Security Concerns

The by-elections are taking place amidst a tense political environment, with reports of localized violence in some areas. In Kasipul constituency, clashes have reportedly led to injuries, prompting calls for increased police vigilance. Similarly, concerns over security have been raised in Mbeere North. These incidents have underscored the importance of the security assurances from the government.

The National Police Service (NPS) has stated it is prepared for the polls, with ballot papers and other sensitive materials being dispatched under heavy security escort. The deployment is part of a broader strategy to ensure polling stations are secure and that voters are protected from intimidation. The official campaign period, which began on October 8, concluded on Monday, November 24, as stipulated by the IEBC to create a 48-hour cooling-off period before polling day.

IEBC Preparedness and Electoral Integrity

IEBC Chairperson Erastus Ethekon has affirmed the commission's readiness to conduct free and fair elections. The electoral body is using the voter register certified on June 21, 2022, and has completed the training of electoral officials. The dispatch of election materials from warehouses in Nairobi to the various constituencies and wards began over the weekend.

These mini-polls are the first to be overseen by the newly reconstituted IEBC and are considered a crucial measure of voter confidence and the professionalism of state agencies involved in election management. International observers and foreign missions are monitoring the process, with some governments, like the UK, issuing travel advisories for their citizens to stay away from political rallies. The outcome of these elections is expected to signal shifting political alignments as the country moves towards the 2027 general election.