IEBC Confirms Full Readiness for Thursday’s Nationwide By-Elections

IEBC says it is ready for Thursday’s by-elections across 24 electoral areas, including six constituencies, one Senate seat and 17 wards.

IEBC Chief Executive Officer Marjan Hussein Marjan said in Embu County that all key preparations are complete. Training for polling clerks has been finalised, election materials have been delivered to constituency warehouses, and ballot papers will be distributed to polling stations on Wednesday.

He noted that each station will have two police officers, supported by additional patrols, and confirmed that accredited observers will monitor the process. He also dismissed concerns about possible unrest in Mbeere North.

Local officials reported that terrain in wards such as Muminji and Evrore may affect access, especially in bad weather. Returning Officer John Kinyua said the commission has secured four-wheel-drive vehicles to ensure materials reach the stations on time.

In Mandera County, Commissioner Hassan Noor Hassan warned against electoral malpractice, citing past offences recorded in 2017 and 2022. He said any official involved in misconduct would be dismissed and prosecuted.

Preparations in Baringo, where a Senate by-election is being held following the death of Senator William Cheptumo in February, have also concluded. County Returning Officer John Mwangi confirmed that clerks and presiding officers have completed training, while chief agents were receiving final instructions at the Kabarnet Vocational Centre.

Flooding in parts of Baringo South has prompted the use of alternative venues agreed upon by local residents. The county has 281,053 registered voters across six constituencies, and a competitive field representing both major and smaller parties.

In Nandi County, IEBC Director Silas Rotich expressed confidence in the Chemundu/Kapngetuny ward poll, where more than 70 officials have undergone intensive training. Four candidates are contesting the seat, with 14,535 registered voters expected to cast ballots at 30 polling stations.

In Kilifi’s Magarini Constituency, candidates intensified door-to-door mobilisation at the close of the campaign period on Monday. Returning Officer Joseph Mwafondo said the commission is fully prepared to conduct a transparent process.