The Independent Electoral and Boundary Commission (IEBC) is set to experience another test as the November 27, 2025, by-elections across the country get underway.

Following the lengthy build-up that began with the reconstitution of the electoral umpire, the time has come for the newly constituted body to take charge of its first task ahead of the 2027 polls.

By-election breakdown

According to the commission, a total of 181 candidates were finalised to contest in the 24 electoral areas with by-elections scheduled mini-polls, which will now take place after the campaign period officially ends on Monday, November 24, 2025, in line with the 48 hours before the by-election day.

The Member of County Assemblies (MCAs) contest will dominate the by-elections, with 21 places voting in their new ward representatives.

Six constituencies will see by-elections for the member of parliament, with the Baringo senate race the sole race for the other chamber of the bicameral house.

Earlier, in accordance with the powers vested in the commission, the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) declared two ward-level seats as no-contest after only one candidate was cleared in each.

It followed up by declaring the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) the winners in the two uncontested regions.

In a Gazette Notice No. 15732 dated October 29, 2025, the IEBC confirmed that no other candidates were validly nominated in the affected areas, leading to an automatic win for UDA.

Reuben Kigen Tobosei was declared the duly elected Member of County Assembly (MCA) for Tembelio Ward in Moiben Constituency, while Philip Kipkosgei Kiprutto was declared the MCA for Metkei Ward in Keiyo South Constituency.

Highest nominees

Of the remaining 22 electoral areas, Nairobi County’s Kariobangi North County Assembly Ward within Embakasi North Constituency and Chewani Ward in Galole Constituency of Tana River County have the highest number of nominees cleared, with 16.

The Kariobangi North race attracted the highest number, with 16 aspirants cleared to vie for the seat that was precipitated by the death of Joel Munuve, the independent candidate who passed on on April 22, 2025.

It is noteworthy that some candidates have since either withdrawn or stepped down for rival candidates, even if their names might still appear on the ballot.