Kenya’s electoral body has released the official campaign calendar for by-elections scheduled for 27 November, setting strict rules for candidates and parties.

In a notice issued on 3 September, Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) chairperson Erastus Ethekon announced that campaigns will run from 8 October to 24 November. The 48-hour cooling period before voting day remains in place.

“The campaign time will run from 7am until 6pm, during the campaign period,” Ethekon said.

Independent candidates have been directed to submit the names of their agents at least 14 days before the vote. The IEBC says the requirement will allow enough time for vetting and training, ensuring smoother management of polling stations.

A total of 23 seats are up for grabs: six in the National Assembly, one in the Senate, and 16 at the county assembly level. The vacancies arose through deaths and appointments to government positions.

Ethekon noted that the commission was guided by constitutional provisions, particularly Article 259, in setting the timelines. Several parliamentary seats, he said, had already surpassed the constitutional deadlines for replacement.

On compliance, the IEBC stressed that candidates and parties must observe the Electoral Code of Conduct. The code, embedded in the Elections Act of 2011, will apply from the publication of notices until the swearing-in of those elected.

“Every political party, candidate and person who will participate in the election shall subscribe to and observe the Electoral Code of Conduct,” the notice reads.

The commission assured voters that logistical and legal frameworks are being tightened to safeguard the credibility of the polls. It called on all stakeholders to ensure campaigns remain peaceful, transparent and fair.