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The stage is set for vibrant political contests across the country as the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) officially clears 56 candidates to participate in the November 27 by-elections. The announcement, published in the Kenya Gazette and signed by IEBC Chair Erastus Ethekon, features a diverse mix of experienced politicians, party loyalists, and independent contenders seeking to capture one Senate and six National Assembly seats. With campaigns already underway, voters are preparing for an active and competitive political season.
In the Rift Valley, Baringo County is expected to draw national attention with six candidates eyeing the Senate seat. The contest is being viewed as a test of political strength in the region. Among those cleared are UDA’s Chemitei Cheburet, Shadrack Kaplawat of the Alliance for Change Party, and Samuel Letasio from the Kenya Moja Movement. Others in the race include David Kipruto of the Republican Liberty Party, Chebon Benjamin representing The New Democrats, and Daniel Kurui of Umoja Na Maendeleo Party. Former Senator Gideon Moi’s withdrawal from the race, following discussions with President William Ruto, has added further intrigue to the contest.
The National Assembly races have also attracted significant interest, with 50 candidates approved across six constituencies. In Magarini, ten contenders are seeking victory in what promises to be one of the most competitive races. Among them is Harrison Kombe of ODM, who is attempting to reclaim his seat after the court nullified his earlier win. He will face off against Karisa Kenga from the Democracy for the Citizens Party, Chengo Ngumbao of the Democratic National Alliance, Jacob Kwicha of the Federal Party of Kenya, and independent aspirant Amos Kalama. Other candidates include Sarah Gakahu (Kenya Moja Movement), John Masha (Kenya Social Congress), Hamadi Karisa (Roots Party), Kitsao Kalama (The We Alliance Party), and Samuel Komb (Wiper Patriotic Front).
In Banissa, voters will choose between two aspirants—Ahmed Hassan of UDA and Nurdin Mohamed of the United Progressive Alliance—while Mbeere North features eight candidates led by Leo Wa Muthende (UDA) and Newton Ndwiga (Democratic Party). The competition also includes Murithi Njeru (Alliance for Change), Duncan Mbui (Chama Cha Kazi), Daniel Ngari (Kenya Moja Movement), Albert Murimi (National Vision Party), Lawrence Iteri (Safina), Mwaura Waiharo (Umoja Na Maendeleo Party), and Ngiri Muringi (United Progressive Alliance).
Malava and Ugunja constituencies are also shaping up as strong battlegrounds, each attracting nine and ten contenders respectively. In Kasipul, nine candidates—including three independents—are contesting the seat. ODM has fronted Boyd Were, the son of former MP Ong’ondo Were, while other hopefuls include Jesse Samson Okello (Democratic National Alliance) and independents Linda Aoko, Philip Aroko, and Robert Bior.
The IEBC has called on all aspirants and their supporters to uphold peace and adhere to the electoral code of conduct during campaigns. With just weeks left before the November 27 polls, communities across the nation are bracing for an energetic and colorful display of Kenya’s ever-evolving democracy.
