Voters turn out in Isiolo, Kakamega, Embu by-elections
Voting exercise in parts of Isiolo, Kakamega and Embu counties to fill vacant elective seats has already kicked off in today’s by-elections as United Opposition parties face the Kenya Kwanza and ODM working under the Broad-Based government arrangement.
According to the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), voting is underway for the Member of the National Assembly seat in Isiolo South Constituency, as well as Member of County Assembly (MCA) positions in West Kabras Ward in Kakamega County and Muminji and Evurore wards in Embu County.
Polling stations opened at 6.00 am and are scheduled to close at 5.00 pm. The commission said any time lost during the day will be recovered at the close of voting, and all voters who will be in the queue by 5.00 pm will be allowed to cast their ballots.
IEBC has urged residents to turn out in large numbers and exercise their democratic right, reminding them to mark their ballots correctly. “Use one mark only on the ballot paper,” the commission advised, reiterating its message that “Your vote, your future.”
The by-elections were triggered by the creation of vacancies in the affected constituency and wards.
In a statement issued on Tuesday this week, IEBC Chairperson Erastus Edung Ethekon said the commission is fully prepared for the February 26 mini-poll.
He noted that key logistical milestones have been completed, including the procurement of election materials, gazettement of candidates, polling stations and tallying centres, as well as the servicing and configuration of Kenya Integrated Election Management System (KIEMS) kits.
Ballot papers and related materials were packaged and dispatched to the respective areas, while election officials underwent training focused on professionalism, integrity and proper handling of results.
Ethekon also reminded candidates and supporters that campaigns officially closed on Monday, February 23, 2026, at 6.00 pm, in line with the gazetted election timelines.
“Any form of campaigning or engagement of voters for electoral purposes shall not be permissible,” he said.
IEBC staff and observers have been deployed across the affected areas to ensure the process is conducted smoothly, transparently and in accordance with the law.
Residents have been encouraged to follow polling guidelines, maintain order at voting centres and remain patient throughout the exercise.
