Preparations for the upcoming November 27th by-elections are now in their final stages as the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) continues to dispatch essential voting materials to different parts of the country.
On Friday morning, the agency sent out 39 sealed cases containing ballot boxes, ballot papers, voting booths and other required items from the government’s national warehouses in Industrial Area.
These materials were directed to 22 designated centre headquarters where the mini-polls will take place.
IEBC Commissioner Hassan Noor Hassan, who was overseeing the process, emphasized that the commission is focused on ensuring a smooth and credible exercise.
He noted that the agency is transporting materials to some remote areas by air to avoid delays and guarantee that everything is in place ahead of polling day.
“Sasa hivi tuko katika matayarisho ya mwisho ya kusafirisha bidhaa ili kuhakikisha kwamba tunaweka mazingira mwafaka ya kupiga kura. Tunatumia ndege kusafirisha kituo cha Turkana,” he said.
Commissioner Noor also issued a firm reminder to all candidates and their supporters that election offenses will not be tolerated. He stated that actions such as voter bribery before, during or after the mini-polls are punishable under electoral law.
Although the commission has not yet received official complaints pointing to specific individuals, he explained that any formal complaints submitted will be investigated and necessary action taken.
According to him, candidates found culpable risk disqualification and possible prosecution.He further assured voters of their safety during the by-elections, adding that the police leadership has committed to providing adequate security.
“Nataka kuhakikishia wapigaji wote hasa Homa Bay, Kasipul, kwamba police IG ametuhakikishia kwamba usalama utaimarishwa,” he noted.
The country currently has 23 pending by-elections, which include one for the Senate, six for the National Assembly and 16 for various ward seats.
The IEBC maintains that it is committed to conducting a free, fair and transparent process as Kenyans prepare to head to the polls next week.
