By Kevin Khisa
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has rolled out an expanded, multi-agency security operation across all by-election zones, citing heightened political temperatures and renewed fears of interference ahead of Thursday’s contests.
IEBC Commissioner Alutala Mukhwana said the commission has activated a layered deployment plan that includes both uniformed and undercover officers in what he described as a proactive response to early signs of tension in several hotspots.
Speaking on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, Mukhwana noted that by-elections often attract intense rivalry, and this cycle is no exception. He stressed that while political heat is expected, law enforcement agencies have been instructed to ensure it does not spill over into chaos.
“By-elections are naturally competitive—people push hard, emotions rise, and we’ve already seen that,” he said. “But we have carefully mapped all 22 areas and deployed officers accordingly. We have police in uniform, we have those not in uniform, and every security agency has been roped in.”
In Mbeere North, IEBC CEO Marjan Hussein Marjan led a high-level security briefing with local commanders following claims by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki that the opposition might ferry goons into the constituency. Marjan assured residents that the commission will not allow any group to disrupt the process or intimidate voters.
On the Coast, Magarini constituency has received one of the most robust security plans. Returning officer Joseph Mwofondo revealed that every polling station will have at least two police officers, while the tallying centre will be guarded by more than 50 officers, including units from the Rapid Deployment Unit (RDU).
Mwofondo also addressed a growing concern over alleged attempts by politicians to entice voters into photographing their marked ballot papers in exchange for cash or favours. He issued a hardline warning, saying such schemes not only violate electoral laws but will attract immediate arrest.
“All presiding officers have been instructed to enforce a strict no-phones rule inside voting booths,” he said. “No voter will be allowed to enter with a phone or capture images of the ballot. Anyone caught engaging in that will face firm legal action.”
As the countdown to polling day ticks on, the IEBC insists the measures in place are sufficient to guarantee a peaceful and credible vote even in the most politically charged constituencies.
