Embakasi North Member of Parliament James Gakuya has asked the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to ensure a free, fair and verifiable election as Kenya prepares for by-elections scheduled for Thursday, May 14, 2026.

Gakuya raised concerns about the conduct of the electoral process, citing Emurua Dikirr Constituency as a key focus area in Narok County.

Speaking in an interview on May 11, 2026, Gakuya said, “IEBC has to conduct a free, fair and verifiable election, and as things are in Emurua Dikirr, if no influential forces drive that particular result, DCP will win the election.”

His remarks come as political campaigns intensify across the constituency ahead of the vote.

The Emurua Dikirr parliamentary seat fell vacant following the death of area MP Johana Kipyegon Ng’eno in a helicopter crash on February 28, 2026, in Nandi County. The IEBC has scheduled the by-election alongside polls in Porro Ward in Samburu County and Endo Ward in Elgeyo/Marakwet County.

Voting will be conducted from 6:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with voters in queues allowed to cast their ballots after the official closing time. The commission has estimated the cost of the Emurua Dikirr by-election at approximately Ksh59 million.

Campaign activity in Emurua Dikirr

The contest in Emurua Dikirr has developed into a closely watched race between the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) and the United Democratic Alliance (UDA).

DCP candidate Vincent Rotich has conducted active campaigns across the constituency, drawing large crowds and holding rallies at polling stations.

Former Nandi Hills MP Alfred Keter endorsed Rotich on May 11, 2026, and is expected to participate in the final phase of DCP campaigns at Chagina Grounds. DCP Deputy Leader Cleophas Malala has also described Rotich as a leading candidate in the race.

DCP leader Rigathi Gachagua has been engaging voters through phone campaigns, urging support for Rotich while calling for further scrutiny into circumstances surrounding the death of former MP Johana Kipyegon Ng’eno.

Meanwhile, UDA has fielded David Keter, known as “Dollarline,” who has campaigned on unity and stability messages. The party has also involved the late MP’s widow, Nanyoi Ntutu, in mobilisation efforts.

Election preparedness and outlook

Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot has stated that UDA remains confident of victory, citing historical voting patterns and previous electoral margins in the constituency.

With the by-election approaching, IEBC has outlined operational arrangements and logistical preparations for the vote. The Emurua Dikirr race, alongside other ward contests, is being closely monitored as a key indicator of political alignments and electoral competitiveness ahead of future national polls.