The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) on Tuesday received ballot papers for the upcoming February 26 by-elections, marking a critical milestone in preparations for the polls set to fill vacant ward seats across the country.
The consignment arrived at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport on February 18, 2026, under tight security, with election officials overseeing offloading and verification before onward distribution to the respective counties.
According to the IEBC, the ballot papers are designated for four wards affected by vacancies: two wards in Mbeere North, one ward in Malava, and one ward in Isiolo Constituency.
The by-elections were necessitated by circumstances including deaths and court decisions that rendered the seats vacant.
Election officials confirmed that the materials include ballot papers for Member of County Assembly (MCA) races, along with statutory forms and tamper-proof packaging.
The commission said all items were printed in accordance with strict specifications to ensure accuracy, security, and transparency in the voting process.
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“The receipt of ballot papers is a key step in the electoral calendar,” an IEBC official said. “We are now moving to the next phase, which involves secure storage, verification, and timely distribution to the affected polling stations ahead of voting day.”
Security agencies were present during the arrival to guarantee the integrity of the materials, reflecting heightened vigilance amid increased political activity as parties intensify campaigns in the final stretch.
The IEBC noted that the ballot papers will be transported to county tallying centres under armed escort and stored in secure facilities before deployment to polling stations on the eve of the vote.
Political parties and independent candidates have welcomed the development, urging the commission to maintain fairness and efficiency throughout the process.
Civil society groups have also called for transparency, particularly in the handling and movement of sensitive electoral materials.
The February 26 by-elections are expected to test the commission’s readiness following past criticisms over logistics and voter confidence.
IEBC has reiterated its commitment to delivering a credible, peaceful and transparent poll, urging voters in the affected wards to turn out in large numbers and exercise their democratic right.
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