Kindiki urges Kenyan to turn out in large numbers for tomorrow's by-elections

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has urged Kenyans to turn out in large numbers for tomorrow’s by-elections, emphasising the importance of electorates to exercise their democratic right responsibly.

The by-elections will fill key vacant positions, including the Senator for Baringo County, the MPs for Mbeere North, Malava, Ugunja, Kasipul, Magarini, and Banisa Constituencies, as well as 15 electoral wards across the country.

In a statement ahead of the polls, Kindiki, who has camped in Mbeere North, praised political parties and residents in the affected areas for conducting peaceful and orderly campaigns in accordance with the law.

He also reassured citizens that the government has put in place comprehensive security arrangements to safeguard the voting process.

“Every citizen has the right to vote and have their choice respected. Security agencies will ensure that no one obstructs, disrupts, or interferes with this fundamental democratic exercise,” he said.

He also called on voters to exercise their judgment carefully, noting that the by-elections are an opportunity for communities to select leaders capable of uniting their constituents and advancing local development.

“May the best candidates win and take on the responsibilities of leadership with integrity, dedication, and a focus on national progress,” Kindiki added.

The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has announced that it has completed preparations for the by-elections, assuring Kenyans of a smooth, secure, and transparent voting process.

It said election materials, polling officials, and security personnel have already been dispatched to their respective stations.

Upon arrival, the agency said, the teams will set up and remain overnight to ensure polling begins promptly at 6 am.

“Voters in the queue by 5 pm will still be allowed to cast their ballots, and any lost time at opening will be recovered at closing,” it said.

Commission Chairperson Erastus Ethekon oversaw the opening of ballot paper pallets in various including Kasipul Wednesday.

He was accompanied by Returning Officer Rebecca Abwaku.

He later met with presiding officers and their deputies at Agoro Sare High School, which will serve as the Constituency Tallying Centre for Kasipul.

Ethekon urged polling officials to carry out their duties diligently, noting that they had been trained by the Commission’s top experts.

“The Commission has the best experts in election management, and they have meticulously trained the selected Poll Officers. Be firm and do your job as guided by law. When we succeed, it will be for our country. Let us carry out our duties peacefully and allow the people to elect leaders of their choice,” he said.