IEBC: We are ready to hold mini polls

The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) says it is ready to hold five by-elections scheduled for Tuesday next week in strict adherence to Covid-19 regulations.

All IEBC staff, poll agents, observers, the media and voters will be required to wear masks to access the polling stations and tallying centres.

“Those without masks will be barred from the mini polls,” IEBC Commissioner Boru Molu said during the training of officials for Kisumu North Ward by-election.

The IEBC postponed the five by-elections due to Covid-19 in April when the country recorded 81 positive cases.

The affected wards are Dabaso in Kilifi County, Kisumu North in Kisumu, Kahawa Wendani in Kiambu and Taita Taveta’s Wundayi/Mbale.

Msambweni constituents will also elect a new MP, following the death of Suleiman Dori while Kahawa Wendani residents will choose a new MCA to replace the late Cyrus Omondi.

Fell vacant

Wundayi/Mbale Ward are also to pick their legislator following the death of Beatrice Mwabili.

Dabaso seat fell vacant after the Court of Appeal in Mombasa nullified the election of Emmanuel Changawa.

In Kisumu North Ward, the seat fell vacant when Elisha Oraro was elected the speaker at the county assembly in January to replace Onyango Oloo who is facing graft charges.

The IEBC says the framework governing electoral processes demands of the commission to put in place systems that will ensure delivery of credible electoral results even in the wake of Covid-19 challenges.

Sanitisers will be placed in strategic locations for use by participants in the polls.

“The commission in collaboration with other authorities will enforce the guidelines issued by the Ministry of Health on all social and political gatherings, including meetings and crowds,” Molu said.