IEBC Warns By-Election Candidates: Breach of Conduct Could Lead to Suspension

The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has issued a stern warning to candidates participating in the November 27 by-elections, cautioning that violations of the Electoral Code of Conduct could result in campaign suspensions amid rising violence in parts of the country

In a joint statement with the National Police Service (NPS) and the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC), the agencies cited escalating tensions in Kasipul and Mbeere North constituencies, where reports of intimidation, violent incidents, and inflammatory statements have emerged

The authorities condemned these actions as violations that undermine peace, tolerance, and national unity

IEBC Chairperson Erastus Edung Ethekon emphasized that the commission would not hesitate to enforce legal measures, including barring candidates or political parties from campaigning where threats to peace are evident

“While campaigns in most areas have remained largely peaceful, we note with concern isolated incidents of violence and intimidation, particularly in Kasipul and Mbeere North,” Ethekon said

“The Electoral Code of Conduct allows the commission to prohibit a party or candidate from campaigning where violations or threats to peace occur. Any breach will attract sanctions under the law”

The IEBC also announced that its Electoral Code of Conduct Enforcement Committee will remain active throughout the campaign period to handle complaints of misconduct

Preparations for the by-elections across 22 electoral areas remain on schedule, with polling officials trained, election materials deployed, and logistics completed

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The agencies urged candidates and political parties to maintain peaceful campaigns and comply strictly with schedules and the Electoral Code of Conduct. Security agencies were asked to uphold law and order professionally, while voters were encouraged to exercise their democratic rights freely and peacefully

Recent incidents highlight the risks: two people were killed and several injured during clashes between supporters of Kasipul parliamentary by-election candidates Phillip Aroko and ODM’s Boyd Were

The violence reportedly erupted after Aroko’s team allegedly disrupted Were’s rally, leading to retaliatory attacks

In Mbeere North, authorities warned individuals plotting violence ahead of the by-election, amid concerns over social media threats circulating online

Writer : Mweru Mbugua