As the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) prepares to oversee 24 by-elections, chairperson Erastus Edung Ethekon has admitted he is feeling the pressure, adding that the heat can be contained with support from Kenyans.
Despite claims by the United Opposition that there are plans to influence the by-elections and the 2027 General Election, Mr Ethekon maintained that neither will be rigged. In an exclusive interview with the Nation on Tuesday, he also dismissed talk of electoral manipulation as political rhetoric meant to undermine public trust in the commission.
The IEBC chair said that just four months after assuming office, the commission is already demonstrating progress, citing peaceful campaigns and party primaries in the by-elections.
IEBC official checks ballot boxes at Malava Boys High School tallying centre on November 25, 2025. They are to be distributed to polling stations ahead of Thursday’s parliamentary by-elections.
Photo credit: Isaac Wale | Nation Media Group
He outlined the commission’s big tests: delivering credible by-elections; restoring public confidence in an institution long dogged by mistrust; curbing political violence and bribery; ensuring only qualified candidates make it to the ballot; and preparing a new generation of voters for 2027.
Mr Ethekon said that the new IEBC team inherited a heavy burden of historical mistrust, but said they are determined to deliver clean elections.
While politicians have openly questioned the commission’s preparedness, Mr Ethekon was adamant: “IEBC is not on the ballot. What matters is the will of the people in the areas holding the by-elections.”
He rejected allegations that the government or other actors are influencing the commission’s operations, insisting that IEBC staff will work strictly within the law.
IEBC officials arrange ballot boxes at Mapimo Vocational Training Centre in Magarini Constituency on November 26, 2025.
Photo credit: Kevin Odit | Nation Media Group
“Trust is not built in a day. It takes years to build and seconds to destroy. Many actors contribute to trust in elections, yet IEBC is treated as the sole custodian. To rebuild this confidence, we must remain independent and abide by the law,” he said.
Mr Ethekon condemned politicians publicly, claiming they would rig elections.
“Nobody is going to steal an election or stuff ballot papers. We are free from influence—from the President to the sweepers. We will safeguard our mandate,” he said.
His remarks come amid concerns over voter bribery, violence and claims of interference by some IEBC officials.
He admitted that there had been concerning incidents, but said the commission has acted where evidence exists, including fining two Kasipul Constituency candidates for violence.
“Unless complaints are submitted through proper channels with evidence, it becomes difficult for us to take action,” he said, adding that fewer incidents of chaos reflect improvements in this election cycle.
Mr Ethekon said he believes the commission has already achieved major milestones within its short tenure and hopes today’s mini-polls will conclude smoothly to allow full focus to shift to 2027 elections preparations.
Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission staff put the final touches at Our Lady of Fatima Secondary School on November 26, 2025, ahead of Kariobangi North Ward by-election.
Asked how the IEBC plans to conduct a reliable General Election while relying on security organs and a Judiciary facing credibility concerns, he said: “Elections involve many players. Police are partners under the Election Security Arrangement Programme. The Judiciary is equally critical in handling petitions after polls,” he said.
On claims that IEBC cleared candidates with pending integrity questions, Mr Ethekon maintained that legal procedure was followed.
“We verify credentials using reports from EACC, KRA and other agencies through a robust digital system. Candidates in Mbeere North were cleared according to law,” he said, adding that no objection was lodged against the returning officer’s decision.
He also dismissed allegations that the commission is frustrating youth voter registration, noting that young people remain central to 2027 planning.
“The youth must be at the centre of our democratic journey. We will enhance mass registration and carry out mobilisation in colleges and universities,” he said.
Separately, the National Police Service assured Kenyans of heightened security ahead of today’s by-elections, pledging impartial enforcement of the law and warning political actors against incitement.
National Police Service Spokesperson Michael Nyaga Muchiri.
Photo credit: File | Nation Media Group
In a statement, NPS spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga said the service remains committed to facilitating a peaceful, free and credible electoral process, adding that officers will operate “professionally and in strict adherence to the Constitution”.
“The law will be applied fairly and consistently to all individuals without fear, favour, prejudice, or bias. Any person who, regardless of status or political standing, engages in or incites unlawful activity will face the full force of the law,” Mr Nyaga said.
He added that NPS is coordinating closely with IEBC in line with legal provisions, and that “adequate security shall be deployed” across all polling areas.
IEBC officials set up solar lighting kits, ballot boxes and other polling materials at St. Bakhita Siakago Girls High School in Mbeere on November 24, 2025, ahead of the Mbeere North by-election.
Photo credit: Joseph Kanyi | Nation Media Group
Mr Nyaga urged candidates and other political leaders to conduct themselves within the law, cautioning against inflammatory speech, threats, or remarks that could undermine public confidence in national institutions.
While insisting that officers will act with professionalism and respect for human rights, the NPS appealed to the public to remain calm, cooperate with law enforcers and report suspicious activities through emergency hotlines or anonymous tip channels.
