The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has announced that by-elections will be held on Thursday, May 14, 2026, to fill vacant elective seats in three electoral areas across the country.
In a gazette notice, the electoral commission said voters will elect a new Member of the National Assembly for Emurua Dikirr Constituency in Narok County and two Members of County Assembly for Porro Ward in Samburu County and Endo Ward in Elgeyo/Marakwet County.
The polls will be conducted in accordance with the Constitution and Kenya’s electoral laws, which require vacant elective positions to be filled through by-elections within a specific timeline.
Electoral areas set for fresh vote
Emurua Dikirr Constituency, located in Narok County, is one of the key constituencies in the South Rift region and is expected to attract significant political interest from major parties.
At the county level, voters in Porro Ward in Samburu County and Endo Ward in Elgeyo/Marakwet County will also head to the polls to elect new representatives to their respective county assemblies.
Members of County Assembly play a critical role in county governance, including passing legislation, approving county budgets and overseeing the operations of county executives.
Political parties are expected to field candidates for the seats once the IEBC releases the detailed electoral calendar outlining nomination timelines, campaign periods and other key election activities.
IEBC begins preparations for the polls
The electoral commission said preparations for the by-elections are already underway, including logistical planning, coordination with security agencies and updating electoral materials required for the vote.
IEBC has also urged eligible voters in the affected areas to verify their voter registration details and participate in the electoral process when the polls are conducted.
The commission further warned against the spread of misinformation related to the elections and encouraged the public to rely only on official communication channels for accurate updates.
Under Kenya’s democratic system, by-elections are used to fill vacant seats that arise due to resignation, death, nullification by courts or other circumstances that lead to the loss of office by an elected representative.
The commission has reiterated its commitment to conducting free, fair and transparent elections while calling on political leaders and voters to uphold peace during the campaign and voting period.
