Magarini by-election: IEBC assures voters of tight security amid violence rumours
By Mustafa Juma, November 27, 2025Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) Commissioner Dr Alutalala Mukhwana has assured residents that the upcoming Thursday, November 27, 2025, by-election in Magarini is expected to proceed in a secure environment.
Speaking on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, during an interview with a local TV station, Mukhwana dismissed reports of impending violence and theft of ballot boxes, stating that he has only been hearing about them in the media and social media spaces.
Mukhwana said security personnel have been strategically deployed to ensure the safety of voters and polling materials.
“Some of the things we see out there, we are not seeing them from where we are sitting. I am in Magarini; I have been here, and I will be here. By the time we finish the election tomorrow and have the winner on November 28th, God willing, I will have spent a solid 10 days here. In Magarini, it is peaceful. The people of Magarini want nothing but to walk into the polling booth, cast their ballot, and go back to their daily chores,” he said.
Security challenges
Dr Mukhwana added that should any security challenges arise, authorities are prepared to respond promptly.
“This talks about impending violence and theft of ballot boxes in Magarini; we hear it in the media and social media space. I’ve been here in Magarini, and we have not encountered a single instance of insecurity. However, should there be any cases, we have taken adequate steps; we have enough security deployed,” Mukhwana said.
IEBC preparedness
IEBC has announced that it is fully prepared for the Thursday, November 27, 2025, by-elections, set to take place across 22 electoral areas, assuring Kenyans of a transparent, secure, and smoothly coordinated process.
In a press statement released Wednesday evening, IEBC Chairperson Erastus Edung Ethekon confirmed that all logistical and operational arrangements have been completed.
Polling stations will open at 6:00 am and close at 5:00 pm, with any delays compensated to ensure all eligible voters are accommodated.
“The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) wishes to inform the nation that all preparations for the by-elections scheduled for Thursday, 27th November 2025, across 22 electoral areas have been successfully completed. Polling will commence at 6:00 A.M in all designated polling stations,” the statement read in part.