D-day for by-elections in Isiolo, Kakamega, Embu

Residents in Isiolo, Kakamega and Embu counties are heading to the polls today to fill several vacant elective positions.

The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) confirmed that voting is underway for the Member of the National Assembly for Isiolo South Constituency and for Members of the County Assembly in West Kabras, Muminji, and Evurore Wards.

Polling stations opened at 6.00 am and are scheduled to close at 5.00 pm.

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The commission assured voters that any lost time during polling will be recovered at closing, and voters in the queue by 5.00 pm will be allowed to vote.

IEBC reminded citizens to cast their votes correctly, emphasising, “Use one mark only on the ballot paper.”

The commission also urged residents to participate actively, stating, “Come out in large numbers and exercise your democratic right,” and highlighted the importance of the vote, adding, “Your vote, your future.”

By-elections follow the creation of vacancies in the affected constituencies and wards. IEBC staff and observers have been deployed to ensure the voting process is conducted smoothly and transparently.

Residents are encouraged to follow polling guidelines, maintain order at polling stations, and exercise patience.

The by-elections are being closely watched, with parties aligned to both the government and the opposition seeking to test and demonstrate their political strength.

In Isiolo South, the contest for the Member of Parliament seat follows the passing of the MP, Tubi Bidu Mohamed. Three candidates in the race are Fayo Isack Abduba (National Economic Development Party), Tubi Tubi Mohamed (UDA), and Tupi Bina Mohamed (Jubilee Party).

In West Kabras Ward, Kakamega County, six candidates are contesting the County Assembly seat, including Shalakha Elphas (UDA) and Khaemba Bramwel (DCP) and Mukhwana George (National Economic Development Party).

Muminji Ward, Embu County, features seven candidates.

The seat fell vacant after MCA Newton Karish resigned to contest the Mbeere North parliamentary seat.

They are Ngari Boniface (Devolution Empowerment Party), John Nyaga (UPA), Njeru Cosmas (National Economic Development Party), Njiru Joseph (Umoja na Maendeleo Party), Njiru Peterson Njeru (UDA), Njuki Charles Kiura (The We Alliance Party), and Nthiga Zachary Mbogo (Kenya Moja Movement Party).

Meanwhile, Evurore Ward, also in Embu County, has 10 candidates vying for the MCA seat.

They include Kabuthi Catherine (UPA), Kigoro Albert (Democratic Party), Mate Johnson Mukui (Independent), Muriithi Martin (National Economic Development Party), Njeru Joseph (People’s Liberation Party), Njeru Kennedy (United Green Movement), Njiru Eston(Umoja na Maendeleo Party), Njiru Virginia Thaara (Kenya Moja Movement Party), Nyaga Duncan (UDA), and Nyaga Kenneth (Chama Cha Kazi).

The commission says preparations, including ballot papers, trained staff, and technology, are in place to ensure a smooth election.