The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has issued stern warnings to polling officials ahead of Thursday’s November 27, 2025, by-elections, underscoring adherence to the law and the sanctity of the Oath of Secrecy.

In Malava, IEBC Commissioner Mary Karen Sorobit visited the constituency on Monday, November 24, 2025, to monitor preparations and preside over the oath-taking ceremony for polling clerks and other officials.

“While clerks were taking the oath, she urged polling officials to carry out their duties with diligence and integrity,” the commission stated in a post on X dated November 24, 2025.

Commissioner Sorobit also emphasised the need to uphold the Oath of Secrecy throughout the electoral process and assured officials of the commission’s on-site support during the exercise.

The commissioner further underscored the importance of safeguarding the credibility of the electoral process, noting that Kenyans must look after their own democracy by doing the right thing.

Reminded the team that there is a clear voting procedure that must be strictly followed. She assured officials that support is readily available, with the Deputy Returning Officer and Returning Officer on the ground to address any issues.

She concluded by expressing her confidence in the team, noting that the Commission remains committed to delivering free, fair and credible by-elections.

Contests intensify in key constituencies

The Malava seat fell vacant following the death of Malulu Injendi in July 2025. The race has narrowed into a tight contest between United Democratic Alliance (UDA) candidate David Ndakwa and Democratic Action Party–Kenya (DAP-K) candidate Seth Panyako.

Campaign trails have drawn high-profile supporters, with Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki and Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei backing Ndakwa, while opposition leaders Kalonzo Musyoka, Eugene Wamalwa, George Natembeya, Senator Boni Khalwale, and former Interior CS Fred Matiang’i have rallied behind Panyako.

In Mbeere North Constituency, Returning Officer John Kinyua told journalists at the IEBC offices in Siakago that the Commission is fully prepared to conduct transparent and efficient elections.

“All 124 polling stations will be manned by two security officers each, with tight monitoring to protect voters and election materials,” he said, cautioning supporters against wearing branded campaign attire on polling day, which constitutes illegal campaigning and could lead to candidate disqualification.

Kinyua confirmed that IEBC Chairperson Erastus Ethekon and CEO Marjan Hussein Marjan will personally supervise ground operations and meet the Embu County Security Committee on November 26, 2025, to finalise security arrangements.