IEBC gazettes two UDA candidates elected unopposed ahead of by-elections.

The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has gazetted the declaration of no contest for two county assembly seats after only one valid nomination was received in each case.

The decision effectively means the two candidates have been declared elected unopposed ahead of the by-elections scheduled for November 27, 2025.

According to the gazette notice, Reuben Kigen Tobosei (Tembelio Ward, Uasin Gishu County) and Philip Kipkosgei Kiprutto (Metkei Ward, Elgeyo Marakwet County) have been duly elected as members of their respective county assemblies after no other candidates were validly nominated.

“In exercise of the powers conferred by the Constitution and the Elections Act, the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission makes a declaration of no contest, and the persons listed are duly elected for the electoral units indicated,” IEBC chairperson Erastus Ethekon said.

The IEBC’s gazette notice and accompanying statement outline the legal basis for the declarations under the Elections Act and relevant constitutional provisions.

The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) welcomed the development, terming it an early win ahead of the upcoming by-elections.

“Congratulations to the UDA Party and the newly elected leaders on this early victory,” the party said.

The early confirmation of winners reduces the number of contests on the ballot and allows administrative and logistical resources to be reallocated to other wards.

However, following the circulation of fake notices online earlier in October, electoral stakeholders have reminded the public that only official gazette notices and IEBC communications should be treated as authoritative.

What “no contest” means

Under electoral law, if only one candidate is validly nominated for a seat, the electoral body may declare that candidate elected without holding a poll.

The gazettement formalises this administrative step, removing the affected wards from the by-election calendar and allowing the winners to assume office without a ballot.

The upcoming by-elections are meant to fill vacancies in several county wards across the country.

The IEBC has urged all participating political parties and candidates to adhere to the Electoral Code of Conduct and to ensure peaceful, credible campaigns and polls.

“The Commission remains committed to upholding transparency and integrity in all its electoral processes,” Ethekon said.

Campaigns will run from October 8 to November 24, with candidates expected to conclude their campaigns 48 hours before voting day.

The Commission has also warned against acts of intimidation, bribery, or violence, noting that any such behaviour will attract legal consequences.

The upcoming mini-polls are expected to attract attention from political observers and parties keen to test their grassroots influence ahead of the 2027 General Election.