IEBC Issues Guidelines for Independent Candidates Ahead of By-Elections

A file image of Erastus Edung Ethekon, Chairperson, Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC)

The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has released timelines and requirements for independent candidates intending to contest the by-elections.

According to the commission, aspirants seeking to run as independent candidates must not be members of any political party for at least three months prior to the by-election.

They are also required to obtain a clearance certificate from the Registrar of Political Parties confirming their non-affiliation.

“Independent candidates must submit their chosen name and symbol to the Commission by September 17, 2025, using the prescribed Forms 11N and 11P in both electronic and print formats,” IEBC stated.

Approved symbols will be published in the Kenya Gazette at least 14 days before the official nomination period begins.

Nomination and registration of candidates; both independent and those presented by political parties, will take place on October 8 and October 9, 2025.

Candidates are required to submit completed nomination forms, a list of supporters with signatures, national identity card or passport numbers and copies of the supporters’ identity documents to the respective Returning Officers.

The number of supporters required varies by position: 2,000 for Senate seats, 1,000 for National Assembly, and 500 for County Assembly contests.

The official campaign period will run from October 8, to November 24, ending 48 hours before the by-election day.

“Campaigning is allowed daily from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.,” IEBC said.

Independent candidates are also required to submit the names of their agents at least 14 days before the by-election to facilitate processing and training.

All participants are expected to comply with the Electoral Code of Conduct from the date of the by-election notice publication until the swearing-in of elected candidates.

 Any disputes regarding nominations or alleged breaches of the Code will be handled by the IEBC’s dispute resolution and Electoral Code of Conduct committees between October 8 to 17.

“All independent aspirants to strictly adhere to the stipulated timelines to avoid disqualification and ensure smooth participation in the by-elections,” IEBC urged.