The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) is set to announce timelines for upcoming by-elections next week, Chairperson Erastus Ethekon has confirmed. The move comes amid increasing pressure from the public and political leaders to restore representation in areas affected by vacant parliamentary and county assembly seats.
Speaking during a media briefing on Saturday, Ethekon underscored the urgency of holding the by-elections to uphold the constitutional right to representation for all Kenyan citizens.
“There is no excuse whatsoever why we should not address this matter as quickly as possible, so that we restore the constitutional rights to representation for those citizens in the affected areas,” Ethekon said.
He added that the Commission is finalising internal preparations and will release detailed schedules in a phased manner. The first phase of announcements is expected next week, with more updates to follow in the coming weeks and months.
The IEBC’s plan is aimed at addressing concerns about delays in filling vacant seats, which critics argue undermines Kenya’s democratic principles. Ethekon reassured the public of the Commission’s commitment to electoral integrity and timely action.
In addition to the by-elections, Ethekon revealed that the IEBC will announce the official timelines for the resumption of continuous voter registration in August 2025 through a gazette notice. He noted that preparations for the rollout are in their final stages.
“For the past two years, we have taken note of the sustained demand, particularly from Kenya’s youth and the political class, on the resumption of voter registration and updating of the register,” he said.
The Commission has been under pressure to provide opportunities for new voters, especially the youth, to register ahead of future elections.
“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,” Ethekon stated.
He concluded by encouraging civic engagement and assuring the public that the Commission will keep all stakeholders informed as the processes unfold.
