4 Constituencies Awaiting By-election As Reconstitution Of IEBC Begins

Resident in constituencies without Members of Parliament (MPs) will soon hold a by-election as reconstitution of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) is underway.

By-elections are expected in four constituencies following vacancies left by resignations, nullifications, or deaths of MP(s).

Constituencies without representation in the August House are likely to be left behind on development activities.

By elections in these areas have been delayed due to the lack of a fully constituted IEBC, which has significantly raised concerns about constitutional adherence, governance, and representation in the National Assembly.

Constituencies that have been without Members of Parliament (MPs) for extended periods include Banisa since March 2023, Ugunja July 2024, Gwasi July 2024 and Magarini March 2024.

According to Article 101 of Kenya’s Constitution, a by-election should be held within 90 days of seat falling vacant. However, this has not been met due to the non-functioning IEBC body.

Since January 2023, the IEBC has been in a limbo after the exit of Wafula Chebukati and other commissioners. This mass exit has left the IEBC non-operational, making it impossible to conduct by-elections.

The speaker of National Assembly, Moses Wetangula during a retreat in Naivasha emphasized on the importance of having legislative and representation. He further warned that the absence of representation in these constituencies can undermine the democratic process and the smooth functioning of the legislative body.

"The delay in the reconstitution of IEBC stalled crucial activities, including boundary delimitation, which is vital for the country’s electoral system, as well as the timely conduct of by-elections in constituencies and wards that have experienced vacancies,” Wetangula said.

The reconstitution of the IEBC is a critical step toward addressing these electoral challenges. Once the commission is fully operational, it will need to ensure the by-elections are conducted.