IEBC issues election roadmap, warns contenders as mini-polls near

Preparations for the November 27 by-elections have moved into high gear after the electoral agency published official Gazette Notices setting out the full roadmap for the vote.

The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission announced the details on October 31, confirming the candidates cleared to contest, the polling centres, tallying points, and areas where no voting will take place.

In the notices, the Commission confirmed that Mitkei and Tembelio Wards will not have ballots cast. The two areas were declared uncontested, meaning the nominated candidates will take up their seats without undergoing a competitive vote, a process permitted under election rules where only one valid candidate is presented.

With campaigns already underway, the electoral body has reminded contestants that the official campaign window closes on November 24. All candidates are required to end public rallies and promotion 48 hours before polling day, in line with the laws governing elections in the country.

“The Commission has officially published the requisite Gazette Notices in preparation for the upcoming By-Elections scheduled for November 27, 2025. These notices provide crucial details on: * The list of Nominated Candidates. * The Declaration of No Contest for Mitkei and Tembelio Wards. * The designated Polling Stations. * The specific Tallying Centres,” IEBC stated.

“All Candidates and participating Political Parties are required to adhere to the Electoral Code of Conduct throughout this period. The Commission remains resolute in its mandate to uphold and strengthen Kenya’s democracy.”

The agency has underscored the requirement for all parties and independent contestants to conduct themselves in a peaceful manner.

The Commission issued a caution against threats, bribery, disruptions and any form of voter intimidation, saying such behaviour will trigger legal sanctions and possible disqualification. It has stressed that maintaining a calm and orderly process is central to safeguarding public confidence in the polls.

Observers expect the mini-polls to serve as an early test of political strategies and support base mobilisation as leaders begin shaping ground networks ahead of the 2027 electoral cycle.

Even though some wards are uncontested, the Commission says the process remains crucial in maintaining representation and ensuring that citizens continue to have functioning ward leadership.

The Commission has uploaded all relevant notices on its website to make information accessible to the public. Voters have been encouraged to check their names on the register and identify where they will vote to avoid last-minute confusion.

The Commission has insisted that transparency in every step of the process is aimed at supporting voter readiness and smooth election day logistics.