The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has announced a ban on mobile phone use inside polling stations ahead of the February 26 by-elections. The decision follows observations that in previous elections, some voters photographed their marked ballots and shared them on social media. The commission states this measure will protect ballot secrecy and ensure a free and fair electoral process.
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has issued an official statement outlining new rules for polling stations in preparation for the by-elections scheduled for February 26, 2026. The ban on mobile phones aims to prevent incidents observed in past elections, where voters captured images of their marked ballots and posted them online.
"Any act that compromises this secrecy, including photographing or recording a marked ballot paper, undermines the integrity of the electoral process, exposes voters to undue influence, coercion, and vote-buying, and constitutes an electoral offence," the IEBC stated.
To curb such issues, the commission will enforce administrative controls at polling stations. Additionally, with campaigning ending on February 23, candidates and officials are confined to their assigned polling stations and prohibited from moving between locations. This restriction is intended to prevent voter intimidation.
Using mobile phones inside polling stations and intimidating voters violate Articles 38(3)(b) and 81(e)(i) of the Constitution, which safeguard citizens' rights to free political choices. The February 26 by-elections will fill four vacancies: the National Assembly seat for Isiolo South Constituency in Isiolo County, and three County Assembly seats in West Kabras Ward (Kakamega County), Muminji Ward, and Evurore Ward (both in Mbeere North, Embu County).
For enhanced security, the IEBC has deployed two uniformed police officers per polling station and extra personnel at tallying centers. The commission also clarified that only polling station agents may photograph original results forms to promote transparency.
