IEBC Responds to ODM Claims Over Polling Station Access in Magarini
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) responded firmly to claims made by the ODM Magarini candidate, Harrison Kombe, alleging that some of his agents were denied access to polling stations during the November 27, 2025, by-election.
The IEBC dismissed these claims, emphasizing its commitment to conducting a free, fair, transparent, and credible election.
The Commission underscored that all election officials are independent, operate within the law, and that no unauthorized individuals are allowed near polling stations, with strict security measures in place including police deployment at all 193 polling stations in Magarini Constituency.
IEBC Chairperson Erastus Edung Ethekon confirmed the seriousness with which the Commission treats any allegations of interference.
The IEBC clarified that returning and polling officers were properly appointed and trained, and political parties were given the opportunity to scrutinize the list of polling officials.
They also assured the public and candidates that the process is under multi-layered oversight by accredited observers, political party agents, and authorized stakeholders, guaranteeing transparency and accountability.
The Commission warned against any attempts to disrupt the process or manipulate outcomes, with penalties for violations such as taking photos of ballot papers after voting.
On Thursday, November 27, 2025, Kenyans voted in 24 by-elections across various constituencies, including highly contested races in Mbeere North, Kasipul, Malava, Magarini, and Baringo, following different circumstances leading IEBC to set this date.
Security measures in areas where the by-elections will take place
In Mbeere North, voting began smoothly at 6:00 a.m., with a significant queue at Kanyuambora Primary School.
By 7:00 a.m., Deputy Party leader Justin Muturi had cast his vote and expressed confidence in their candidate’s victory.
However, at 7:30 a.m., Moses Kuria alleged the use of goons by the state, claiming hundreds of unmarked vehicles were ferrying armed individuals in the area.
By 8:00 a.m., voting was ongoing smoothly across several polling stations with no reported technical issues.
In Kasipul, voting started at 6:15 a.m. amid a heavy police presence, particularly at Agoro Sare polling station where long queues formed by 7:30 a.m.
Candidate Money Bior cast his vote at 7:35 a.m., with voting continuing steadily.
Malava also saw a smooth start to voting at 6:00 a.m. At 6:30 a.m., candidate Panyako alleged that his driver was attacked while casting a vote and called on the government to stop intimidation, urging for a free and peaceful electoral process.
Long queues were witnessed across several polling stations by 8:00 a.m.
In Magarini, ODM candidate Harrison Kombe cast his vote at 6:30 a.m. and raised concerns that some of his agents were denied access to polling stations.
IEBC commissioner Alutalala Mukwana addressed this at 8:30 a.m., explaining that the issue was due to agents lacking official identification but was since resolved.
In Baringo, voting began amidst confusion over submerged polling stations at 7:22 a.m. Baringo South MP Charles Kamuren voted at Marigat Primary School at 7:45 a.m., encouraging locals to turn out in large numbers for representation after the death of former Senator William Cheptumo.
Polling stations were scheduled to open at 6:00 a.m. and close at 5:00 p.m., with compensation for any lost time due to delays.
Security was heightened in all election areas, with police deployed to maintain order and safeguard the process