NCCK says by-elections will be IEBC’s litmus test
The National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK) has urged the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to ensure tomorrow’s by-elections are free of dispute, terming the exercise a crucial litmus test of the commission’s readiness to deliver a credible General Election in 2027.
Speaking on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, in Nyeri during the Council’s Central Region Electoral and Governance Forum attended by clergy from six counties, Central Region Vice Chairperson Stephen Njogu called for renewed assurance from the IEBC in safeguarding democracy as thousands of voters head to polling centres over the next two years.
“We would like to address the IEBC that this is their litmus test. They have to prove to us that we can rely on them to give us the best so that public trust is restored. In these by-elections, they must demonstrate their commitment to delivering credible results,” said Njogu.
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He added that the Council is already engaging with the IEBC and has deployed observers across several areas to monitor the conduct of the polls.
“We have observers from NCCK who will be monitoring various areas where the elections will be conducted,” he said.
The Council also called on the government to provide adequate security during and after the by-elections to prevent any incidents of violence.
“The government should ensure there are enough security personnel before and after the by-elections to ensure the entire process runs smoothly,” Njogu added.
In addition, the clergy demanded an end to early campaigns by elected leaders, announcing that church pulpits will no longer be used for political messaging. They urged leaders to focus on fulfilling their mandates instead.
“We are calling for an end to the early campaigns going on from leaders on all sides. They should stop and concentrate on delivering their mandate to the people,” said Pastor Susan Kamiru.
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The Council further resolved that politicians will not be allowed to address congregations during worship services. Any monetary or material contributions from them will be treated as ordinary offerings and will not be publicly announced.
“All politicians who attend worship services will be treated the same as other worshippers. All contributions will be treated as offerings and will not be announced or given any ceremony,” Kamiru added.











