NAIROBI, Kenya — The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission has urged voters in three electoral areas to turn out in large numbers as polling opened for parliamentary and ward by-elections on Thursday.
In a statement posted on its official social media platforms, the Commission said voting was underway for the Member of National Assembly seat for Emurua Dikirr Constituency in Narok County, as well as Member of County Assembly positions in Porro Ward and Endo Ward.
The electoral body reminded voters that polling stations opened at 6.00 a.m. and would close at 5.00 p.m., adding that any delays experienced during opening hours would be compensated at closing time.
“Voters in the queue by 5.00 pm will be allowed to vote,” the Commission said.
The by-elections are being closely watched as a test of political strength for parties and local leaders ahead of future national political contests.
Security agencies and election officials have been deployed across the affected areas to oversee the voting process and maintain order.
The Emurua Dikirr parliamentary contest is expected to attract significant political attention in Narok County, while the ward-level races in Samburu and Elgeyo Marakwet counties are also seen as important indicators of local political alignments and grassroots influence.
Under Article 38 of the Constitution, every Kenyan citizen has the political right to vote by secret ballot in any election or referendum.
The IEBC has repeatedly called on eligible voters to participate peacefully and uphold democratic values during the electoral process.
The Commission is expected to announce preliminary results after vote tallying concludes at constituency and ward tallying centres later Thursday and into Friday.
