Public officers eyeing elective posts to resign by February 10 - IEBC

Public officials aiming to run for elective positions in Kenya's 2027 General Election must resign from their current roles by February 10, 2027, according to the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC). The announcement sets a clear timeline for candidates preparing to compete in the election scheduled for August 10, 2027, a Tuesday. This date marks exactly six months prior to the general election, providing ample time for the necessary administrative and legal processes to unfold. IEBC Chairperson Erastus Ethekon emphasized that the resignation deadline is non-negotiable and legally binding. He stated that compliance with these timelines is crucial to maintaining order and integrity throughout the electoral process. “Any public officer who intends to contest in this election must resign from public office by Wednesday, 10th February 2027, which is exactly six months before the election,” Ethekon explained during a recent statement. Following the resignation deadline, political parties face their own set of requirements. They must submit their membership lists and candidate details for party primaries by March 16, 2027. These primaries, along with any associated disputes, must be finalized by May 8. Similarly, independent candidates are required to fulfill their legal obligations by the same date. Presidential candidates will have additional time to prepare, with a deadline of May 24 to submit lists of supporting voters drawn from a majority of Kenya’s counties. Candidate registration will begin on May 29, with specific deadlines tailored to different elective positions. These schedules aim to ensure all candidates are properly vetted and registered well ahead of the official campaign period. The official campaign period will start after candidate registration is complete, though it will not begin earlier than May 29, 2027. Ethekon cautioned political entities and candidates against engaging in electioneering activities outside the designated timeframe. Any form of campaigning, including posters, billboards, and political caravans, outside the legal window would be considered unlawful. Campaigning will officially conclude on August 7, 2027, two days before the election day. Ethekon reiterated the importance of adhering to electoral laws and regulations, urging all stakeholders to respect the established schedule. His remarks come as the IEBC unveils several key milestones aimed at facilitating smoother preparation for the upcoming general election. Political parties, presidential aspirants, and other interested parties are beginning to gear up for what promises to be a highly competitive electoral landscape. The outlined schedule provides a structured approach to managing the election process, ensuring transparency and fairness. It allows sufficient time for candidates to meet legal requirements, resolve internal disputes, and engage in lawful campaign activities within defined periods. The IEBC’s emphasis on strict compliance underscores its commitment to conducting free, fair, and credible elections in Kenya.