IEBC Declares Full Readiness for Thursday By-Elections as Campaigns Officially Close
As the clock ticks toward the Thursday, February 26, 2026, by-elections, the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has officially signaled its readiness to conduct the polls. Following weeks of intense political activity, the window for official campaigning slammed shut at midnight, leaving candidates and voters in Isiolo South Constituency, West Kabras, Muminji, and Evurore wards in a state of quiet anticipation.
In a final press briefing held at Anniversary Towers, IEBC Chairperson Erastus Edung Ethekon assured the nation that all logistical, security, and technical preparations have been finalized to ensure a credible and transparent process.
A High-Stakes Race: The Electoral Areas
Thursday’s exercise is not just a routine by-election; it is a critical test of political party strength ahead of the 2027 General Election. The spotlight is firmly on four key areas:
Isiolo South Constituency: The only parliamentary seat up for grabs, where the battle for the National Assembly entry has drawn national attention.
West Kabras Ward (Kakamega County): A fiercely contested County Assembly Ward (CAW) seat.
Muminji Ward (Embu County): Located in Mbeere North, this race has seen high-octane local mobilization.
Evurore Ward (Embu County): Also in Mbeere North, completing the dual-ward contest in the region.
IEBC’s Logistical “Green Light”
According to the Commission, the deployment of election materials—both strategic and non-strategic—is already underway. Chairperson Ethekon confirmed that the Kenya Integrated Election Management System (KIEMS) kits have been fully configured and tested for each specific polling station.
“We have completed the training of our temporary staff, including Presiding Officers, Deputy Presiding Officers, and Polling Clerks. Our technical teams are on the ground to ensure that the digital identification of voters and the electronic transmission of results proceed without a hitch,” Ethekon stated.
To bolster transparency, the IEBC has designated specific tallying centers for each area:
Isiolo South: Garbatulla High School.
West Kabras: Malava Friends Church Hall.
Muminji & Evurore: The IEBC Mbeere North Constituency Office.
Security and the “Code of Conduct”
With campaigns officially closed, the focus shifts to maintaining peace. The IEBC, in collaboration with the National Police Service (NPS), has deployed adequate security personnel to all polling stations and tallying centers.
The Commission issued a stern warning against “shadow campaigning”—the practice of candidates trying to influence voters on the eve of the election under the guise of “logistics.” Any candidate found in breach of the Electoral Code of Conduct faces immediate disqualification or legal action. “The period for persuasion is over,” the IEBC warned. “Tomorrow is a day of reflection, and Thursday is the day of the ballot.”
The Political Landscape: What’s at Stake?
The closure of campaigns on Tuesday marked the end of a grueling month for major political players. The United Democratic Alliance (UDA), ODM, and several independent candidates have poured significant resources into these regions.
In Isiolo South, the contest is seen as a litmus test for regional kingpins, while the ward-level contests in Kakamega and Embu are being viewed as a temperature check for the popularity of the current administration versus the opposition’s grassroots resurgence.
Voter Turnout: The Final Hurdle
Historically, by-elections in Kenya suffer from lower turnout compared to General Elections. To combat this, the IEBC has spent the last week conducting intensive voter education. Voters are reminded that polling stations will open strictly at 6:00 AM and close at 5:00 PM.
Those who were in the queue by 5:00 PM will be allowed to vote, but no new arrivals will be permitted after the deadline. Voters must carry their original National ID card or a valid Passport used during registration.
Conclusion: A Test for the Commission
For the IEBC, Thursday is more than just a by-election; it is a proof-of-concept for the reforms and technologies being refined for 2027. With development partners and observers watching closely, the pressure is on to deliver a result that is not only accurate but beyond reproach.
