IEBC Suspends Migwani Ward By-Election Following Court Orders

The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has halted the Migwani Ward by-election in Mwingi West, Kitui County, as a result of interim conservatory orders from the High Court on October 22, 2026. The court granted a 30-day postponement until a petition challenging the electoral process is heard. IEBC notified the public and stakeholders of this development on Monday, urging them to stay informed through official channels.

The petition was set to be heard on November 11, 2026, but the commission's update indicated November 1, 2026, as the actual hearing date. The Migwani Ward seat became vacant on August 6 when Harrison Maluki Mawia resigned to become the Clerk of the Kitui County Assembly. IEBC had previously scheduled a by-election for this seat, with November 17, 2026, initially declared as the polling date.

However, the commission opened a window for candidate nominations, campaigns, and other election-related activities from September onwards. Media practitioners and election observers were also invited to apply for accreditation, with the application deadline set for October 30. The suspension of the by-election is occurring amidst intense political rivalry in the ward, with the contest seen as a contest between Kalonzo Musyoka’s Wiper Party and President William Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA).

Both parties have ramped up their efforts to demonstrate their political influence in Ukambani ahead of the 2027 General Election.