The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has commenced training of Trainers of Trainers (ToTs) as part of preparations for the by-elections scheduled for February 26, 2026.
The training programme is designed to equip senior election officials with the skills and knowledge required to cascade accurate electoral procedures to poll officials across affected constituencies, strengthening the integrity of the upcoming polls.
IEBC Reaffirms Commitment to Credible Polls
Opening the workshop on behalf of IEBC Chairperson, Commissioner Hassan Noor Hassan emphasized the importance of reinforcing the Commission’s mandate, values, and responsibilities ahead of the by-elections.
Drawing an analogy to repeated sermons, Commissioner Hassan noted that repetition is necessary because human memory is fallible, and the Commission must continuously reaffirm its role in safeguarding electoral integrity.
“While elections are a collective responsibility, the credibility of the process rests squarely on our shoulders. We cannot afford to let down Kenyans who expect us to deliver peaceful, fair, free, and credible by-elections,” he said.
He revealed that over the past six months, the Commission has held extensive engagements with stakeholders across the political, security, judicial, and civil society spheres. According to Hassan, the message from these consultations has been clear and consistent: deliver a fair election.
“It is my firm belief that the upcoming by-elections will be the most peaceful, credible, and transparent this country has witnessed. I am confident that we have officers in the field capable of delivering this mandate. Consistency and strict adherence to the law and procedures are non-negotiable,” he added.
Training Focus and Road to 2027 Elections
The Acting Commission Secretary and Chief Executive Officer, Moses Sunkuli, OGW, expressed appreciation to the Commission and appealed for institutional support as IEBC embarks on broader reforms ahead of the 2027 General Election.
“As I have already conveyed my commitment to the Commission, I equally appeal for your support as we embark on the journey of revamping and resetting the Commission as we head to the 2027 General Election. Change is inevitable. We must find new and better ways of doing things to deliver effectively to the people of Kenya,” said Sunkuli.
He underscored that the preparation of poll officials is critical to delivering high-quality election services. The ToT training will cover the entire electoral cycle, including pre-polling, polling, and post-polling processes.
Key areas of focus include adherence to electoral procedures, use of electronic voter identification technology, results management, and full compliance with legal and regulatory frameworks.
The Commission says the training is part of its broader strategy to strengthen professionalism, counter misinformation, and enhance public trust in the electoral process ahead of both the February by-elections and the 2027 polls.
