NAIROBI, Kenya – The National Police Service (NPS) has issued a stern warning against electoral misconduct, assuring the nation of a comprehensive security strategy for the 24 by-elections scheduled for Thursday, November 27, 2025. In a statement released on Thursday, November 13, from the police headquarters in Nairobi, NPS Spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga affirmed that a "robust, multi-faceted security plan" has been developed in close coordination with the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to ensure a peaceful and credible process.

The announcement comes as political temperatures rise in several of the electoral areas, most notably in Homa Bay County's Kasipul Constituency. Campaign activities there have been marred by extreme violence, resulting in the deaths of two young men and serious injuries to three Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) officers who were ambushed during an operation. This violence underscores the critical importance of the police's commitment to maintaining order.

"The National Police Service wishes to assure the public and all stakeholders of its comprehensive preparedness and unwavering commitment to providing adequate security before, during, and after the upcoming by-elections," Nyaga stated. He emphasized the police service's neutrality, while cautioning that any acts of violence, incitement, hate speech, or destruction of property will be met with "the full force of the law."

A Test Against a Backdrop of Violence

Kenya has a documented history of electoral-related violence, with past general elections and by-elections often becoming flashpoints for ethnic and political tensions. The 2007-2008 post-election violence remains a dark chapter in the nation's history, and smaller-scale, localized conflicts have plagued numerous subsequent polls. These incidents are frequently driven by high-stakes, winner-take-all contests, which can exacerbate existing community grievances.

The upcoming by-elections on November 27 are a significant undertaking, involving one senatorial seat in Baringo County, six National Assembly seats, and 17 Member of County Assembly (MCA) wards across the country. The parliamentary seats being contested are in Kasipul (Homa Bay), Magarini (Kilifi), Banissa (Mandera), Mbeere North (Embu), Ugunja (Siaya), and Malava (Kakamega). Each of these contests carries unique local political dynamics, with the potential to escalate into broader instability if not managed carefully.

The recent events in Kasipul, where clashes between supporters of ODM's Boyd Were and independent candidate Philip Aroko turned deadly, highlight the volatile environment. On November 6, two men were killed with machetes during a confrontation at a rally. Days later, DCI officers investigating the killings were attacked, leaving three hospitalized. This violence prompted the IEBC to condemn the acts and warn that culpable candidates could face disqualification.

The Security and Electoral Framework

The security operation for the by-elections is guided by a collaborative framework between the NPS and the IEBC. Under the Elections Act, police officers deployed for election duty operate under the direction of IEBC officials to safeguard polling stations, tallying centers, election materials, and personnel. This joint approach, often detailed in an Election Security Arrangement Plan (ESAP), is designed to ensure a coordinated response to any threats to the electoral process.

The NPS's role is strictly to maintain law and order, providing the secure environment necessary for the IEBC to conduct its constitutional mandate. In his statement, Nyaga reiterated this distinction, assuring Kenyans that the police will not interfere with the electoral process itself but will act impartially to protect the democratic rights of all citizens.

Concerns over police impartiality are not new in Kenya. Human rights organizations have previously criticized the police for excessive force and partisan behavior during election periods. However, the NPS, under Inspector General Douglas Kanja, has repeatedly stated its commitment to professionalism and accountability. These by-elections will serve as a major public test of these reform promises.

Public Responsibility and A Call for Peace

While placing a heavy emphasis on the responsibilities of political candidates and their supporters to conduct peaceful campaigns, the NPS also called on the public to play an active role in ensuring security. Citizens were urged to vote without fear and to report any suspicious activities or incitement to violence through the emergency hotlines 999, 911, and 112, or anonymously to the DCI.

In Embu County, the security committee has already issued warnings following the circulation of online videos showing individuals issuing threats related to the Mbeere North by-election. This proactive stance, combined with the national assurance from NPS headquarters, signals a high level of alertness from security agencies. As the campaigns enter their final stretch, the ability of the NPS to enforce its zero-tolerance policy on violence will be crucial for upholding the integrity and legitimacy of these by-elections and reinforcing Kenya's democratic stability.