IEBC chair nominee Erastus Edung/FILE
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has issued a detailed update on its preparations and the security situation ahead of the November 27, 2025, by-elections, warning that recent violence in some constituencies threatens peace and order.
In a statement released on Friday, the Commission said it has intensified coordination with the National Police Service (NPS) and the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) following escalating tensions, particularly in Kasipul.
The IEBC said the violence witnessed earlier has continued to get worse, prompting a joint intervention by the three institutions.
Preparations for the by-elections, which will take place in 22 electoral areas, are on schedule. The Commission reported that recruitment and training of polling officials have been completed.
It has also deployed logistical teams across the affected regions. Dispatch of election materials is ongoing and will be completed before voting day.
The Commission held a joint meeting with the NPS and NCIC today, after which the three bodies issued a joint statement. The statement reaffirmed their commitment to delivering “peaceful, transparent, and credible by-elections that reflect the will of the people and uphold the integrity of Kenya's democratic institutions.”
Although campaigns in most areas have been calm, the three bodies raised alarm over “isolated incidents of violence, intimidation, and inflammatory utterances, particularly in Kasipul and Mbeere North constituencies.”
They said they “unequivocally condemn these acts,” noting that they violate Article 81 of the Constitution and the Electoral Code of Conduct.
The IEBC stressed that its mandate under Article 81 is to conduct elections that are free from “violence, intimidation, improper influence, or corruption.”
It reminded all candidates, political parties, and agents that the Elections Act requires them to subscribe to and follow the Electoral Code of Conduct.
Citing worsening tensions, the Commission called on political actors to adhere to their campaign schedules and to conduct peaceful engagements. It highlighted Paragraph 7(a)(iv) of the Code of Conduct, which gives the Commission the power to prohibit a political party or candidate from campaigning “in cases where violations or threats to peace and order are evident.” The Commission emphasised that “any breach SHALL attract sanctions” as set out in law.
The Electoral Code of Conduct Enforcement Committee will sit throughout this period to hear complaints and take action where breaches occur.
In their joint call to action, the three institutions appealed to political leaders and candidates to uphold peace and show restraint as campaigns continue. They urged leaders to guide their supporters responsibly.
They also asked security agencies to maintain law and order “with professionalism and impartiality,” saying their conduct will be key to a peaceful election.
The IEBC encouraged voters in all by-election areas to turn out in large numbers on November 27 and exercise their democratic rights without fear. It reminded the public that safety measures are in place and that security teams will be stationed across polling areas.
The Commission said it remains focused on protecting the integrity of the polls and ensuring that the process reflects the will of the people. It stressed that the IEBC, NPS, and NCIC are “united in purpose and resolute in commitment to safeguard peace, promote national cohesion, and protect the sanctity of the ballot before, during, and after the by-elections.”
The statement was signed by IEBC Chairperson Erastus Edung Ethekon, HSC.
