The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has moved to calm fears over the fairness of the Magarini Constituency by-election, dismissing claims that officials are interfering with preparations.
The Commission emphasized that the November 27 poll will be carried out within legal frameworks, overseen by multiple stakeholders, and free from any undue influence.
The statement comes in response to a letter from Democracy for the Citizens Party leader Rigathi Gachagua, dated November 24, 2025. Gachagua had alleged that a senior IEBC officer was obstructing or influencing the by-election process. IEBC Chairperson Erastus Edung Ethekon confirmed the letter had been received and the issues thoroughly noted.
“The allegations presented regarding the Magarini by-election scheduled for November 27 2025, are weighty and deserve the attention of the Commission,” Ethekon wrote.
The Chairperson assured the party and the public that every measure is taken seriously and that institutional safeguards protect the integrity of the election.
“The Commission wishes to assure your party, and the public, that all matters touching on the integrity of the electoral process are treated with utmost seriousness and subjected to established institutional safeguards,” he stated.
Ethekon detailed the steps taken to guarantee the by-election is conducted fairly. Returning Officers and other key officials have already been appointed and trained in accordance with established legal procedures.
“The Commission appointed Returning Officers on 8th August 2025 vide Gazette Notices Nos. 11158 and 11159 for purposes of conducting the upcoming by-election,” he said, stressing that these officials operate independently and are shielded from “intimidation, coercion, or undue influence from any person or entity.”
On the selection of poll officials, the Chairperson explained that recruitment followed Regulations 5 and 6 of the Elections (General) Regulations, 2012, ensuring a competitive and transparent process. Political parties were given access to the list of officials on November 14 to raise any concerns or objections.
“In line with these provisions, the Commission shared the list of poll officials with political parties on 14th November 2025 to allow them an opportunity to make any representations or raise concerns,” Ethekon stated.
He also clarified that no election officials have yet been deployed to polling stations or tallying centres, noting that training is still in progress.
“No deployment to polling stations or tallying centres has occurred in any by-election area, ensuring that all final assignments follow due process and proper verification,” he said.
The Commission reiterated that all election personnel are bound by law and operate independently from political actors or outside interests.
“As independent election officials, they do not take instructions from any individual, political actor, or external interest,” the Chairperson emphasised.
The Magarini by-election has drawn intense attention from parties seeking assurance on impartiality and security. The IEBC confirmed that the poll will take place under comprehensive oversight by accredited observers, party agents, and other authorised participants.
“The by-election is scheduled to be conducted strictly within the electoral-legal framework, and in the presence of accredited observers, political party agents, and other authorized stakeholders,” the statement noted.
Ethekon concluded by reaffirming the Commission’s dedication to a credible electoral process.
“The Commission reiterates its unwavering commitment to delivering the Magarini By-Election in a free, fair, transparent and credible manner,” he said. “The integrity of the electoral process remains our highest priority, and we will continue to uphold the Constitution, the law, and all applicable regulations in the discharge of our mandate.”
The correspondence was also shared with the Chairperson of the National Steering Committee of the Political Parties Liaison Committee.
