NAIROBI, Kenya – The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has intensified security arrangements ahead of by-elections in 22 constituencies, putting measures in place to safeguard both voters and the integrity of the electoral process.
Commissioner Alutala Mukhwana told the media on Tuesday that uniformed and plainclothes officers will be deployed in sensitive areas to monitor developments and prevent disruptions.
“These elections are a competition, tensions must rise, they already have, but in terms of security, the arrangements we have put in place ensure there is sufficient safety. We have involved all security agencies,” Mukhwana said.
In Mbeere North, IEBC CEO Marjan Hussein Marjan and other commissioners held meetings with local security agencies to coordinate on election day preparedness.
The move follows concerns raised by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, who warned that opposition supporters could mobilise troublemakers to disrupt voting.
Magarini constituency has also seen heightened security. Returning Officer Joseph Mwofondo confirmed that each polling station will have at least two police officers, while over 50 officers—including the Rapid Deployment Unit (RDU)—will secure the tallying centre.
Mwofondo also addressed rising reports of voters being offered rewards to photograph their ballots.
He reiterated that taking photos of ballot papers will not be tolerated, with presiding officers instructed to enforce the rule strictly.
“These measures are part of a broader effort to guarantee transparency, prevent intimidation, and maintain confidence in the by-election process,” the commission said.
Authorities emphasized that the precautions will allow citizens to exercise their voting rights freely while ensuring elections proceed smoothly.
