The Ministry of Education has announced the closure of all primary schools in Emurua Dikirr constituency next week to prepare for United Democratic Alliance (UDA) primaries ahead of May by-elections. Basic Education Principal Secretary Julius Bitok confirmed the decision on March 21. Schools will close on Friday, March 27, to serve as polling stations.
Emurua Dikirr constituency lacks a lawmaker following the death of MP Johana Ngeno in a helicopter crash on February 28, 2026. The Ministry of Education has permitted primary schools there to serve as polling stations for UDA primaries on March 27, after receiving a request letter on the 15th. Bitok stated: 'I want to confirm that on the 15th of this month, I received a letter from the UDA party requesting that primary schools in Emurua Dikirr constituency be used as polling stations for the purposes of the UDA primaries coming on the 27.' He added that firm instructions have been given to aspirants against damaging school property. The ministry emphasized neutrality and will allow other parties similarly. UDA's National Elections Board rescheduled nominations from March 28 to Friday the 27th, including in Porro Ward of Samburu West Constituency and Endo Ward of Marakwet East Constituency. Nomination applications closed on March 20, with polling from 7am to 5pm. A March 13 IEBC gazette notice set by-elections for May 14, 2026. Parties must submit candidate names by March 25, with IEBC clearance on April 15-16. Campaigns run from April 15 to May 11.
