The political temperature is sizzling across Kenya as the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) conducts 27 high-stakes by-elections today, Thursday, 27th November 2025—an electoral showdown set to reshape county and national politics.
IEBC Chair Erastus Ethokon faces his first true test of credibility since assuming office earlier this year, with Kenyans keenly watching whether he will deliver a free, fair and airtight electoral process.
Where the by-elections are happening
1. Senate (1 Seat)
Baringo County
2. National Assembly (6 Constituencies)
Banissa
Kasipul
Magarini
Malava
Mbeere North
Ugunja
3. Members of County Assembly (17 Wards)
Across Samburu, Nandi, Tana River, Garissa, Nairobi, Kakamega, Elgeyo Marakwet, Machakos, Narok, Kajiado, Uasin Gishu, Nyamira, Bungoma, Turkana.
Campaigns wrapped up 48 hours ago, but the political drama has lingered into election day:
Lillian Akinyi Aketch—the only woman in the Ugunja parliamentary race—made a heartfelt plea urging voters to “tick the first box” and skip the rest of the nine-candidate ballot. She is, however, up against a strong ODM frontrunner widely tipped as favourite.
Kasipul is shaping up as the big spectacle. Independent candidate Philip Aroko ignited a social media storm after releasing a dramatic video of a Legio Maria priest anointing him.
He remains neck-and-neck with ODM’s Boyd Were, making Kasipul arguably the most watched contest today.
In Malava and Mbeere North, the ruling party UDA faces stiff pushback from strong regional competitors.
A candidate linked to Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua risks losing despite running what many analysts call “one of the most disciplined and relentless campaigns” of the by-election season.
Reports from across the country show impressive morning turnout, with voters eager to shape the future of their Wards and Constituencies.
Security agencies remain alert and visible, ensuring that the polls proceed peacefully.
For Chairman Erastus Ethokon, today is more than an administrative exercise—it’s a moment of truth that will determine public confidence in the Commission going forward.
Featured Image: Courtesy
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