NAIROBI, Kenya – The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has outlined the strict legal and constitutional requirements aspirants must meet to qualify for the November 27, 2025 by-elections.
In a gazette notice issued on August 8, the Commission announced that mini-polls will be held in 24 electoral units to fill 23 vacant positions — one senatorial seat, six parliamentary seats, and 16 ward seats.
The polls are expected to serve as a political litmus test ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Eligibility Rules
Only Kenyan citizens by birth will be allowed to contest. Aspirants with dual citizenship must renounce it before presenting nomination papers.
In addition, candidates must possess at least a post-secondary qualification recognised in Kenya.
Nomination fees have been set at Sh10,000 for women, youth and persons with disabilities, while other candidates will pay Sh20,000.
Independent aspirants are required to present a list of 1,000 registered voters from their constituency or ward, each supported by a copy of their national identity card.
Other mandatory documents include:
- National ID card
- Academic certificates
- IEBC nomination certificate
- A self-declaration form from the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC)
The Commission stressed that candidates must meet ethical and legal standards set out in the Leadership and Integrity Act.
Those who are bankrupt, convicted of crimes carrying sentences of more than six months, or who have served as public officers within five months of the election date will be disqualified.
Vacant Seats
The vacancies arose from a mix of tragedies, court rulings, and political appointments.
- Banisa MP Kullow Hassan Aden died in a hit-and-run accident in March 2023.
- Malava MP Malulu Injendi also passed away.
- Magarini’s election was nullified by the Supreme Court.
- Kasipul MP Charles Were was assassinated in May 2025.
- Ugunja and Mbeere North seats were left vacant after their MPs joined the Cabinet.
Several ward seats were also declared vacant, including Kariobangi North (Nairobi), Kisa East (Kakamega), Narok Town (Narok), Purko (Kajiado), Tembelio (Uasin Gishu) and others in Samburu, Nandi, Tana River, Garissa, Elgeyo Marakwet, Machakos, Nyamira, Turkana and Bungoma counties.
Commission Assures Readiness
IEBC Chairperson Erastus Ethekon admitted that delays in reconstituting the electoral body had slowed operations but assured the agency is now fully functional.
“This is a priority matter. Constituencies like Banisa have gone almost three years without representation,” Ethekon said.
The Commission added that voter register updates are ongoing to ensure the by-elections proceed smoothly.
Aspirants have been urged to verify their eligibility and prepare all documentation in advance of the nomination period.
