The Public Service Commission (PSC) has issued fresh guidelines for public officers ahead of the upcoming by-elections set for November 27, 2025, warning that those intending to contest must resign from their positions within seven days of the official declaration of vacancies.
In a circular released on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, and signed by Mary Kimonye, the PSC Vice Chairperson, the commission emphasized that public officers are constitutionally obligated to maintain political neutrality and uphold the laws governing participation in political activities.
The directive follows the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) announcement of by-elections to fill 24 vacant seats in Parliament and County Assemblies across the country.
According to PSC, the requirement for public officers to resign is anchored in Section 43(5A) of the Elections Act, which mandates that any public officer seeking elective office must vacate their post within seven days of the declaration of a vacancy.
The commission also reiterated that public officers are prohibited from engaging in political activity while in service. The circular cited Section 12(c) and (d) of the Political Parties Act, which bars public officers from publicly supporting or opposing any political party or candidate or engaging in any action that compromises their neutrality.
Additionally, the PSC reminded all officers of their responsibilities under the Leadership and Integrity Act, the Conflict-of-Interest Act, and the Public Service Code of Conduct, all of which stress impartiality and integrity in public service.
Any officer found in violation of these laws will face disciplinary action as stipulated under existing service regulations. Ministries, State Departments, and Agencies have been directed to submit names of officers who resign to contest and to ensure full compliance with the directive.
The PSC stated that these measures aim to promote transparency, accountability, and political neutrality in the public service, preserving public confidence in government institutions ahead of the by-elections.
