Kenyans are casting their votes in by-elections across the country under tight security and close supervision by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC).
The elections, covering National Assembly, Senate, and County Assembly seats, are taking place in 22 constituencies and wards, drawing attention from security agencies, observers, and the public.
In Magarini, voters began arriving early at Mjanaheri Primary School, with some experiencing minor confusion over their designated polling stations. Despite this, the atmosphere has remained calm.
An official on the ground said, “Security side, IEBC officials and election observers are already on the ground to ensure that the whole process will run smoothly. Residents have high expectations.”
Voting in Malava started promptly at 6:00 a.m., with officials reporting a smooth opening.
A local election officer noted, “Some voters have cast their votes already. We have not seen any problem yet.” Across the country, polling stations opened on time, and voters are being verified through the KIEMS biometric system, which also allows them to check their details against the 2022 voter register posted at every polling centre.
IEBC Chairperson Erastus Edung Ethekon confirmed that all logistics had been completed ahead of the polls, including the distribution of ballot papers, deployment of polling staff, and functioning of KIEMS kits.
The National Police Service (NPS) has assured the public of comprehensive deployment to safeguard polling stations, transit routes, and sensitive locations.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen reminded Kenyans that protecting votes is the responsibility of the state, not individuals, urging voters to cast their ballots and leave the polling area promptly.
He also cautioned against any attempts by political actors to incite violence or disrupt the process, promising decisive action against anyone found interfering.
The IEBC also warned its staff against collusion or bias, emphasizing that presiding officers who interfere with the process would face prosecution.
Voters have been reminded that photographing ballot papers is strictly prohibited, with only result forms being documented by agents after counting, ensuring transparency at each polling station.
Recent violent incidents in hotspot areas, including clashes that led to fatalities, prompted the IEBC to adopt a “zero tolerance” approach to election-related violence. Investigations are ongoing, and sanctions, including potential disqualification of involved candidates, are being considered.
As voting progresses, the by-elections present a critical opportunity for Kenyans to fill leadership vacancies while testing the capacity of electoral and security institutions to conduct a free, fair, and peaceful exercise.
Authorities continue to encourage eligible voters to participate early, follow the guidelines, and vote confidently, with both domestic and international observers monitoring the process closely.
