The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has announced that four by-elections will be held on February 26, 2026, covering one parliamentary seat and three ward-level positions across Isiolo, Embu, and Kakamega counties.
In a gazette notice, IEBC chairperson Erastus Ethekon confirmed that the contests will include:
- Isiolo South Constituency (MP seat) – vacant following the death of Mohamed Tubi, elected in 2022.
- Muminji Ward (MCA seat, Mbeere North Constituency, Embu County) – vacant after resignation.
- Evurore Ward (MCA seat, Mbeere North Constituency, Embu County) – vacant after resignation.
- West Kabras Ward (MCA seat, Malava Constituency, Kakamega County) – vacant after resignation.
Nomination and Campaign Timelines - Independent candidates must submit names and symbols by January 2, 2026.
- Political parties must submit nominated candidates by January 16, 2026.
- Parties are also required to submit names and specimen signatures of authorized officials by January 13, 2026.
- IEBC will publish names of party primary contestants and dates within seven days of receiving submissions.
- Campaigning will run from January 22 to February 23, 2026, between 7:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. daily, ending 48 hours before polling day.
Six Returning and Deputy Returning Officers have been appointed to oversee the process, with two officers assigned per county.
Political Dynamics
Isiolo South Constituency (MP seat):
- Previously held by Jubilee Party’s Mohamed Tubi.
- Jubilee is expected to defend the seat, while UDA is likely to mount a strong challenge.
- Clan dynamics and pastoralist community interests will play a decisive role.
Mbeere North (Muminji & Evurore Wards): - Both seats fell vacant after MCAs resigned to contest parliamentary positions.
- UDA has been consolidating support in Embu County and is expected to push hard.
- Jubilee and smaller outfits like the Democratic Party (DP) may also field candidates.
- Local family and clan networks are expected to heavily influence outcomes.
Malava Constituency, Kakamega County (West Kabras Ward): - ODM traditionally dominates Kakamega politics, but UDA has been making inroads.
- Community divisions within the Kabras may split votes, creating opportunities for independents.
- Development issues such as roads, schools, and sugar industry revival are expected to dominate campaigns.
The February by-elections will serve as a litmus test for Kenya’s major parties ahead of the 2027 General Election. Jubilee will be keen to retain Isiolo South, UDA will push to expand its grassroots presence in Embu and Western Kenya, while ODM will fight to maintain its dominance in Kakamega. Independent candidates, backed by strong local networks, could also upset party expectations in ward-level races.
