The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has issued the eligibility criteria and nomination requirements for candidates eyeing the November 27, 2025, by-elections, which will fill 24 vacant seats across the country.
According to the Commission, only Kenyan citizens by birth who have held citizenship for at least 10 years are eligible. Aspirants holding dual citizenship will have to renounce it before assuming office.
On nomination fees, IEBC set different rates depending on the position and category of the candidate.
- County Assembly seats: Ksh10,000 for women, youth, and persons with disabilities, while other aspirants will pay Ksh20,000.
- Parliamentary seats: Ksh2,500 for marginalized groups and Ksh5,000 for others.
- Senate seats: Ksh25,000 for marginalized groups and Ksh50,000 for other aspirants.
Independent candidates will also be required to demonstrate broad grassroots support. MCA aspirants must present a list of at least 500 supporters, parliamentary aspirants must have 1,000 supporters, while Senate candidates must gather 2,000 supporters. Copies of supporters’ ID cards will be required.
Further, independent aspirants must not have been affiliated with any political party within three months prior to the by-election. All candidates will also have to file a self-declaration form from the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC).
The first batch of 16 ward-level vacancies was gazetted on August 8, including Kariobangi North in Nairobi, Kisa East in Kakamega, and Metkei in Elgeyo Marakwet. A second notice, to be gazetted on August 11, will list the Baringo Senate seat, six National Assembly constituencies Banissa, Kasipul, Magarini, Malava, Mbeere North, and Ugunja along with the Kabuchai/Chwele Ward in Bungoma County.
With just over three months to go, IEBC says the roadmap is clear and all aspirants must adhere strictly to the outlined requirements.
