The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has assured voters that today’s polling exercise will run smoothly despite reports of delays in a few areas, saying all lost time will be recovered to ensure every eligible voter gets a fair chance to cast their ballot.

The commission issued the clarification early Thursday after voting began across multiple polling stations in the ongoing by-elections.

Speaking through an X post posted on Thursday, November 27, 2025, the electoral body said polling officially kicked off at dawn.

“Polling stations opened at 6.00 am and will close at 5.00 pm,” the statement reads

The IEBC noted that while the official closing time remains 5.00 pm, no voter will be locked out unfairly due to delays caused by technical, logistical, or administrative issues. It said any lost minutes during the day will be recovered to ensure the process remains free, fair, and credible.

“Any lost time during polling will be recovered at closing, and voters in the queue by 5.00 pm will be allowed to vote,” the statement reads

The clarification comes amid reports of minor hiccups in a few polling centres, like slow voter identification devices. IEBC’s assurance aims to calm concerns among voters who feared that delays could limit their ability to participate in the democratic process.

Across various regions, voters began lining up as early as 6:00 am, with some arriving before sunrise to avoid long queues. Election observers on the ground reported peaceful environments, though noting heightened security presence to maintain order.

The IEBC emphasised that its officers are under clear instructions to account for any time lost, especially in polling stations where opening was delayed.

The commission also reminded Kenyans that the law guarantees anyone in the queue by 5.00 pm the right to vote, urging citizens to remain calm and patient.

As the by-elections continue throughout the day, the IEBC says it will keep monitoring the situation across all stations and provide updates where necessary. The commission encouraged voters to turn out in large numbers and exercise their democratic right peacefully.