By Hope Barbra
It’s all systems go as the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) concludes preparations, including the training of election officials and delivery of voting materials to all 22 electoral areas ahead of the November 27th by-elections.
In an update on its X handle, IEBC confirmed it had successfully completed training for presiding officers and their deputies.
“During the final session, all officers took an oath of secrecy, reaffirming their commitment to uphold integrity, impartiality, and professionalism throughout the electoral process. This reinforces our pledge to deliver a free, fair, and credible election. As we enter the final stages of preparation, the team is fully equipped to manage polling stations. The Commission remains committed to ensuring that every eligible voter exercises their democratic right,” read the post.
IEBC also announced the arrival of election materials across all 22 areas.
“This marks a major advancement in our preparedness as the Commission moves to the final pre-polling activities. The ballot papers and statutory forms will be opened and distributed on Wednesday, the day of the election,” said Commissioner Hassan Noor Hassan.
As IEBC finalizes its logistics, political heavyweights are making last-minute attempts to woo voters across the country.
Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka led campaigns in Ugunja on Saturday for his party candidate, Eng. Johannes Odhiambo Orodi, before heading to Malava to join the United Opposition team in support of DAP-K candidate Seth Panyako.
In Malava, the race has intensified as the united opposition faces off with President William Ruto’s Kenya Kwanza coalition in what is widely viewed as a test of Luhya support ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
Kalonzo wrote on his X handle:
“Malava has spoken with one voice, and the whole country is buzzing. Ground imechapa stamp and the message is undeniable. Seth Panyako is headed for victory on November 27th. Landslide loading.”
ODM MP Caleb Hamisi also emphasized the political significance of the region:
“My final stop this evening was in the interior village of Masungutsa in Malava. Malava, you have a cardinal duty in the history of Mulembe politics to return the dignity of the Luhya nation,” he wrote.
On the other side, President Ruto’s allies were combing the region for votes for UDA candidate David Ndakwa, led by Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi.
“Malava deserves peace, progress, and steady leadership, and I believe David Ndakwa reflects these values. He is well placed to carry the aspirations of the people and steer the constituency toward a stronger future. I urge the community to remain united behind leaders who put Malava first,” Mudavadi posted.
He assured residents that the by-election would be credible, transparent, and fair, noting that robust security arrangements were in place.
“Together with National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, Cooperative CS Wycliffe Oparanya, fellow leaders, and the great people of Malava, we rallied behind our candidate. His moment to serve has arrived,” he added.
Gachagua vs Kindiki: Battle of the Deputies in Mbeere North
In Mbeere North, a dramatic political showdown is unfolding between Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and his successor, Interior Cabinet Secretary Prof. Kithure Kindiki.
The two top Mt Kenya political figures have set up camp in the constituency in a battle expected to reshape the region’s political landscape ahead of 2027.
Kindiki urged residents to elect Kenya Kwanza candidate Leo Wamuthende, arguing that he would champion development and ensure government projects are implemented.
Gachagua, while on his morning walk, expressed confidence that the people would elect UDA candidate Newton Kariuki.
“Early and healthy morning walk through the villages of Mbeere North reminds me of the resilience and determination of our people. Deep in Karingiri village, the community has spoken loud and clear. We continue to engage with wananchi, exposing corrupt economic saboteurs for who they are,” he wrote.
ODM Intensifies Campaigns in Turkana
ODM National Chairperson Gladys Wanga led campaigns in Turkana for the upcoming ward by-elections.
“The journey to next week’s by-election in Turkana’s Lake Zone and Nanaam wards has been a display of solidarity. This county, a loyal stronghold of ODM and our late leader Raila Odinga, is speaking with one voice. Their support is unwavering,” she wrote.
As the clock ticks down, it is a do-or-die moment for all candidates and the competing coalitions—United Opposition, Kenya Kwanza, and ODM—as they make their final appeals to voters before polling day.
