Aasai

The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has announced plans to unveil a comprehensive schedule for upcoming by-elections beginning next week, following months of public outcry and political pressure. IEBC Chairperson Erastus Ethekon confirmed the development during a media briefing held on Saturday, assuring Kenyans that the commission is finalizing critical internal preparations to restore electoral representation in affected areas.

Ethekon said the by-election timelines will be shared in phases, and the process will adhere strictly to the Constitution and electoral law. Several seats in both Parliament and county assemblies have remained vacant due to deaths, resignations, and legal nullifications—leaving constituents without formal representation for extended periods.

“There is no excuse whatsoever why we should not address this matter as quickly as possible,” said Ethekon. “It is our duty to restore the constitutional rights to representation for citizens in the affected areas. Every Kenyan deserves a voice in matters of governance, and we must not delay this any further.”

The IEBC chair noted that internal reviews, logistical assessments, and consultations with key stakeholders have been ongoing to ensure readiness before setting the dates. He emphasized that the commissions delay was not out of negligence but rather a desire to conduct credible and well-organized by-elections.

Ethekon added that the commission will roll out public information campaigns to raise awareness among affected constituents and ensure smooth participation. “We will be briefing the country on the details, including the timelines we are looking at,” he said. “This process will begin next week and continue progressively over the next few months.”

The announcement comes amid sustained criticism from civil society organizations, elected leaders, and ordinary Kenyans who have faulted the commission for failing to act promptly on the issue. Several constituencies and wards have gone months without active representation, limiting residents access to development funds, policy engagement, and legislative support.

Beyond the by-elections, Ethekon also addressed the long-awaited voter registration drive, which the commission plans to resume in August 2025. He said that an official gazette notice will be published in the coming weeks to formalize the process. According to Ethekon, the IEBC is at the tail end of logistical planning and has been closely monitoring public sentiment.

“For the past two years, we have taken note of the sustained demand—particularly from Kenya’s youth and political class—on the resumption of continuous voter registration,” he stated. “Indeed, we hear the voices of young Kenyans demanding the opportunity to be counted and to be actively involved in this democratic process of rebuilding our country.”

He stressed that youth participation in elections is crucial to shaping the country’s future and urged those who have come of age to take part in the registration exercise once it begins. The IEBC plans to deploy a nationwide strategy targeting universities, remote areas, and urban centers to ensure no eligible citizen is left out.

In conclusion, Ethekon reassured the public of the commission’s commitment to openness, credibility, and inclusivity. “The Commission encourages continued civic engagement and pledges to keep all stakeholders informed as these critical processes unfold,” he said.

As Kenya edges closer to the 2027 General Election, these two announcements mark a significant step toward rebuilding public trust in the electoral body and strengthening the country’s democratic institutions.