The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has announced key timelines for handling disputes ahead of the November 27, 2025, by-elections.
In a notice issued by chairperson Erastus Ethekon, the IEBC confirmed that its Dispute Resolution Committee will hear and determine all disputes arising from the candidate registration and nomination process between October 8 and October 17, 2025. This move, the commission said, is aimed at ensuring that all grievances are addressed in a fair and timely manner before Kenyans head to the polls.
At the same time, the IEBC Electoral Code of Conduct Committee will oversee cases related to breaches of the electoral code of conduct. This mandate will run from the publication of the by-election notice until the gazettement of elected leaders.
“The commission wishes to assure the public that all disputes will be addressed fairly, transparently and within the confines of the law, in line with the commission’s mandate of delivering free, fair and credible elections,” the statement read.
Election Dispute Resolution (EDR) plays a crucial role in the electoral process, providing an avenue for aggrieved parties to seek redress over complaints, violations, and malpractices. By addressing disputes early, the IEBC aims to safeguard the integrity of the upcoming by-elections.
The commission also reminded aspirants, particularly independents, to strictly adhere to submission deadlines and regulatory requirements to avoid disqualification. Compliance with timelines and procedures, Ethekon emphasized, is central to upholding a credible process.
Meanwhile, the official campaign period will run from October 8 to November 24, 2025, with campaigns allowed between 7:00 am and 6:00 pm daily.
The November by-elections will cover 23 electoral units, including six National Assembly seats, one Senate seat, and 16 Member of County Assembly (MCA) positions. These vacancies arose from various causes, among them deaths of sitting members and appointments to other positions.
The announcement comes as political parties and independent aspirants step up preparations, with campaigns expected to intensify in the coming weeks. The IEBC’s assurance of timely dispute resolution is expected to boost confidence in the process as voters prepare for the polls.
