By Brian Kiprono - Reporter
Kenya, 27 November 2025 - Security has been stepped up across 22 constituencies as Kenyans headed to the polls on Thursday for by-elections marked by heavy police presence and tight monitoring.
Hundreds of officers from the National Police Service (NPS) were deployed overnight, following concerns about possible disruptions and pockets of tension reported in the run-up to voting. Polling stations opened early, with officials describing the start of the process as “largely smooth” despite isolated incidents.
NPS spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga said officers had been drawn from regions without elections and reassigned to the affected constituencies to reinforce local teams. He noted that the service was working closely with the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to guarantee a secure environment throughout the exercise.
“Our mandate is to protect life and property, maintain public safety, and ensure Kenyans can vote without fear. We are collaborating with IEBC as required by law to secure the process before, during, and after the polls,” Nyaga said.
The heightened deployment follows Wednesday night disturbances reported in Narok and Kakamega counties. Police confirmed that two people were injured in separate incidents linked to political tensions. Additional patrols have since been dispatched to both regions, with commanders warning that any attempts to disrupt voting will be dealt with firmly.
IEBC Chairperson Erastus Ethekon reassured the public that adequate measures had been put in place to prevent violence and intimidation. He said every polling station had at least two officers on duty, with mobile units on standby to respond to emergencies.
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“We want voters to feel safe and confident as they exercise their democratic rights,” Ethekon said. “Any suspicious activities or disruptions should be reported immediately through the established security channels.”
Long queues were reported in several constituencies by mid-morning, with voters noting a steady turnout despite the earlier tensions. Election officials said materials had reached all locations on time and that voting was proceeding without major delays.
Authorities are expected to maintain heightened security throughout the day until when counting begins, with both NPS and IEBC urging political leaders to help keep the peace.
