IEBC opens accreditation for observers and media ahead of February 2026 by-elections
By Joel Masibo, January 9, 2026The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has announced the opening of applications for the accreditation of election observers and media practitioners ahead of the by-elections scheduled for Thursday, February 26, 2026.
According to the notice released on Friday, January 9, 2026, the deadline for submission of applications is Friday, February 6, 2026, at 5.00 pm. IEBC emphasised that late applications will not be considered and urged interested parties to plan accordingly to avoid last-minute challenges.
Observer and Media accreditation
”The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) invites applications from organisations wishing to be accredited as Election Observers and Media Practitioners for the By-Elections scheduled for 26th February 2026,” the notice dated Friday, January 9, 2026, reads in part.
The Commission further advised applicants to ensure they have access to a stable and reliable internet connection while submitting their details on the online system to prevent disruptions during the application process.
Once the accreditation process is complete, IEBC will conduct training sessions for successful organisations and issue official badges. These badges will grant accredited observers and media practitioners access to polling stations and tallying centres during the by-elections.
IEBC has also clarified that it does not pay observers and media practitioners, noting that participation is voluntary and guided by professional and organisational mandates.
The scheduled mini-polls will be held on Thursday, February 26, 2026, in Isiolo South Constituency for one Member of National Assembly seat, three Member of County Assembly seats in Muminji Ward and Evurore Ward in Embu County and West Kabras Ward in Kakamega County.
IEBC in Turkana
Meanwhile, throughout the festive period, IEBC offered voter education and voter registration services, including new registrations, polling station transfers, and updates of voter particulars.
The commission participated in the 2025 Tobong’u Lore Cultural Festival in Turkana County, an annual international cultural event that attracts over 100,000 visitors and more than 500 exhibitors from across the East African Community. The festival ran from Monday, December 15, to Thursday, December 18, 2025. It was officially opened on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, by President William Ruto.