The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has officially begun dispatching ballot papers and statutory forms to 20 electoral areas in preparation for the upcoming November 27 by-elections. The materials were flagged off on Friday morning at the IEBC warehouse in Nairobi, marking a key milestone in the commission’s preparation for the mini-polls.
Commissioner Hassan Noor Hassan, who oversaw the flag-off, confirmed that most regions had already received their consignments. He added that the commission has finalised all logistical, security, and procedural arrangements to ensure that the by-elections are conducted smoothly and transparently.
Two areas in Turkana County—Lake Zone Ward in Turkana North and Naanam Ward in Turkana West—will receive their voting materials by air on Saturday. Hassan cited the remoteness of the regions and logistical challenges as key reasons for the airlift.
According to the commission, returning officers in all affected constituencies and wards are on standby to receive and secure the ballot papers. The materials will remain under tight security until Wednesday, when they will be opened and distributed to polling centres across the 20 areas.
Hassan reiterated that the IEBC is committed to following all established electoral protocols, noting that every step of the process—from dispatch to storage—has been designed to uphold the integrity of the election. He urged candidates, political parties, and supporters to maintain peace and respect the law as campaigns enter the final stretch.
“With election day approaching, we appeal for calm and non-violence. Let the will of the people prevail,” he said, encouraging voters to turn out in large numbers on November 27.
The by-elections come at a time when the commission faces heightened public scrutiny following recent political disputes and court battles. The IEBC hopes that a well-organised process will boost public confidence ahead of the 2027 General Election.
