The Public Service Commission has directed government institutions to prevent public officers from engaging in politics ahead of November by-elections. Officers wishing to contest must resign within seven days of vacancy declarations. Breaches could lead to suspension or termination.
The Public Service Commission (PSC) issued a directive on October 22, 2025, warning public officers against political involvement as by-elections approach on November 27, 2025. Signed by PSC Vice Chairperson Mary Kimonye, the circular was sent to heads of public institutions, emphasizing compliance with electoral laws to maintain neutrality.
Public officers intending to contest must resign within seven days from the declaration of vacancies, as per the directive. Failure to do so violates electoral law and disqualifies them from running. “Public officers interested in participating in the by-elections are required to have resigned from their positions within seven days of the declaration of the vacancies,” the circular states.
The PSC referenced Section 12 (c) and (d) of the Political Parties Act (Cap. 7D), which prohibits public officers from engaging in activities that compromise their neutrality or from publicly supporting or opposing any political party or candidate. Additionally, Section 25(1) of the Conflict of Interest Act, 2025, bans participation in political campaigns, acting as agents for parties, or other impartiality-undermining actions.
Violators face disciplinary measures, including suspension, termination of employment, or removal from office, depending on the offense's severity. “Any public officer found in breach of the above legal and policy provisions will be subjected to disciplinary action in accordance with the prevailing service regulations,” the PSC warned.
Institutional heads must submit lists of resigned staff intending to contest. “You are required to submit to the Public Service Commission the names of officers under your State Departments or Agencies who have so far tendered their resignations in order to participate as candidates in the upcoming by-elections,” the directive instructs. Senior administrators are urged to enforce compliance and act against violations.
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) will conduct these by-elections for several seats, including 24 constituencies.