The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has issued a robust statement outlining final preparations, security measures, and transparency guarantees for the 22 by-elections set for November 27. In a detailed brief, the Commission reaffirmed its commitment to delivering free, fair, transparent, and credible polls across all affected areas.
According to IEBC, each polling station will host a minimum of two security officers, supported by additional patrol teams to provide rapid response whenever necessary. Working jointly with the National Police Service, the Commission says comprehensive security has been deployed to polling stations, tallying centres, and other strategic locations.
To reinforce transparency, IEBC announced that once polling closes at 5:00 PM, presiding officers will—in full view of agents, observers, and the media—open ballot boxes, count votes, and record results openly at each polling station. Agents will be permitted to photograph official results forms, and a copy of the results form will be publicly posted at the station for citizens to view.
Returning officers will subsequently receive, verify, collate, and announce constituency-level results before declaring winners in the presence of agents and accredited stakeholders. IEBC reminded any aggrieved parties that courts remain the lawful avenue for dispute resolution.
The Commission also encouraged the media to continue providing accurate and balanced coverage, strengthening public trust in the process. Voters were urged to turn out in large numbers, exercise their democratic right peacefully, and maintain calm before, during, and after the polls.
Chairperson Erastus Edung Ethekon, HSC, reiterated that sovereign power belongs to the people, as enshrined in Article 1 of the Constitution, and affirmed IEBC’s unwavering dedication to credible elections.
By-election results will be accessible to the public through the Commission’s official results portal.
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