NAIROBI, Kenya — Political parties preparing to contest the November 27 by-elections must meet a strict seven-point compliance checklist issued by the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties (ORPP).
The directives, released Friday, are intended to strengthen transparency, party structures, and adherence to electoral law before the mini-polls.
Top on the list is the requirement for all parties to submit the names and specimen signatures of their authorised signatories for nomination certificates by September 17.
The ORPP also directed political outfits to establish election management teams and internal dispute resolution committees to handle intra-party conflicts.
Parties must further submit verified membership registers and forward comprehensive nomination schedules — including venues, dates, procedures, and the list of aspirants.
In a move to promote openness, the ORPP ordered that nomination details be made public on both party and ORPP websites at least one week before the exercise.
The final directive stresses compliance with the electoral code of conduct, legal frameworks, and all gazette notices.
The checklist comes as the IEBC prepares for 24 by-elections across the country. These include ward races in Angata Nanyokie (Samburu), Chemundu (Nandi), Chewani (Tana River), Fafi (Garissa), Kariobangi North (Nairobi), Kisa East (Kakamega), Metkei (Elgeyo Marakwet), Mumbuni North (Machakos), Purko (Kajiado), and Tembelio (Uasin Gishu).
Voters will also head to the ballot in Banissa, Kasipul, Magarini, Malava, Mbeere North, and Ugunja constituencies, as well as in the Baringo senatorial by-election.
The November polls are being closely watched as a test of both party compliance and electoral credibility, with the IEBC already warning of a Sh258 million funding shortfall threatening preparations.
