IEBC issues guidelines for independent candidates in upcoming by-elections

The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has issued detailed guidelines for independent candidates intending to contest the upcoming by-elections scheduled for November 27, 2025.

In a notice on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, the IEBC outlined the eligibility criteria, nomination timelines, campaign rules, and compliance requirements that will govern the by-elections.

According to the Commission, aspirants running as independents must not have been members of any political party for at least three months before the date of the by-elections. They will also be required to submit a clearance certificate from the Registrar of Political Parties to confirm compliance.

“Independent candidates are expected to submit their names and symbols to IEBC by September 17, 2025, using prescribed forms both in electronic and print formats, delivered to Anniversary Towers. The Commission will publish approved symbols in the Kenya Gazette at least 14 days before the nomination of candidates,” the statement read in part.

The nomination and registration process will be conducted on October 8, 2025, and on October 9, 2025, with requirements differing by elective position:

• Senate aspirants must present a list of at least 2,000 registered voters from the county as supporters.
  
• National Assembly aspirants will need at least 1,000 registered voters from the constituency.
  
• County Assembly aspirants must present a minimum of 500 registered voters from the ward.
  

All lists must include names, signatures, and national identity/passport numbers, as well as copies of the identity cards of the supporters.

Other guidelines

The official campaign period will run from October 8, 2025, to November 24, 2025, between 7:00 am and 6:00 pm daily. Candidates are also required to submit the names of their agents at least 14 days before election day to allow for accreditation and training.

The Commission emphasised that all participants must comply with the Electoral Code of Conduct, which will apply from the date of the by-election notices until the swearing-in of elected leaders.

Further, disputes relating to nominations will be handled by the IEBC Dispute Resolution Committee between October 8, 2025, and October 17, 2025, while the IEBC Electoral Code of Conduct Committee will deal with breaches of the Electoral Code.

The Commission urged all aspirants to strictly adhere to the outlined timelines to avoid disqualification.

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