The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has issued a comprehensive update on security and preparedness ahead of the November 27, 2025 by-elections, following escalating tensions in some electoral areas.

In a statement dated Friday, November 14, 2025, the commission recalled its earlier condemnation of violence in Kasipul Constituency and noted that the situation had “continued to escalate,” prompting a coordinated response with the National Police Service (NPS) and the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC).

The commission said the update seeks to reassure Kenyans of ongoing efforts to protect peace, safeguard the integrity of the vote, and ensure that all processes meet constitutional and legal standards.

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Preparations for the Polls Remain on Track

According to the commission, preparations for the by-elections across 22 electoral areas are “firmly on course.”

The IEBC announced that it had completed the recruitment and training of polling officials and deployed logistical teams to all affected regions.

The dispatch of election materials, the statement noted, is currently underway and will be completed before polling day.

IEBC Chairperson Erastus Edung Ethekon said the commission held a joint meeting with NPS and NCIC where the three institutions issued a joint commitment to deliver “peaceful, transparent, and credible by-elections that reflect the will of the people.”

He emphasized that the institutions remain aligned in safeguarding Kenya’s democratic foundations and ensuring the upcoming polls proceed without disruption.

Concerns Over Violence in Kasipul and Mbeere North

While most campaign activities have been calm, the IEBC highlighted isolated cases of violence, intimidation, and inflammatory political remarks.

The commission pointed out that these incidents have been reported “particularly in Kasipul and Mbeere North constituencies.”

The IEBC, NPS and NCIC jointly condemned these actions, saying they violate constitutional principles under Article 81 and provisions of the Electoral Code of Conduct found in the Elections Act, 2011.

The institutions stated that such behavior “undermines peace, tolerance, and national unity,” warning that electoral periods must not be used to incite tensions or disrupt public order.

The commission reminded political actors that the law obligates all candidates, parties and agents to fully adhere to the Electoral Code of Conduct throughout the campaign period.

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IEBC Warns of Possible Campaign Bans for Violators

Citing its constitutional and legal mandate, IEBC stated that it is committed to ensuring elections are free from “violence, intimidation, improper influence or corruption.”

The commission referenced Paragraph 7(a)(iv) of the Electoral Code of Conduct, which gives it powers to bar any political party or candidate from campaigning if their conduct threatens peace or violates electoral regulations.

Ethekon stressed that breaches of the code “shall attract sanctions as prescribed” in the relevant laws.

Additionally, the Electoral Code of Conduct Enforcement Committee will be active throughout the campaign period, reviewing complaints and taking action where violations occur.

Joint Appeal for Peace and Order

As the country heads into the final days before the by-elections, the three institutions issued a collective call urging political leaders to show restraint and guide their supporters responsibly.

They appealed to security agencies to uphold professionalism and impartiality while maintaining law and order.

The commission also encouraged voters in all affected areas to turn out in large numbers on November 27 and exercise their democratic right “freely and peacefully.”

The statement concluded with a unified commitment by IEBC, NPS and NCIC to “safeguard peace, promote national cohesion, and protect the sanctity of the ballot before, during, and after the by-elections.”

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IEBC Headquarters in Malindi. PHOTO/ IEBC.