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Elections and voting

How elections work

The six seats you vote for, who runs elections, and why every vote counts.

Updated: 2026-09

What you vote for

In a general election, held every five years, you vote for six positions:

  • President
  • Governor (your county)
  • Senator (your county)
  • Woman Representative (your county)
  • Member of Parliament (your constituency)
  • Member of the County Assembly, MCA (your ward)

(Articles 101, 136 and 180)

Who runs elections

The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) registers voters and runs elections. It is meant to be independent.

Free and fair

Elections must be free, fair and regular, and voting is by secret ballot. Every adult citizen has the right to register, to vote, and to stand for office subject to the rules. (Article 38)

Why it matters

Elections are how the people give power to their leaders — and how they take it back. Your vote is your voice.

This is general information, not legal advice.

Related constitution articles

Official sources