IEBC Suspends Migwani Ward By-Election Following High Court Orders

The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has suspended the Migwani Ward by-election in Mwingi West Constituency, Kitui County, following interim conservatory orders issued by the High Court on October 22, 2026.

In a public notice, the commission said the decision was made in compliance with court orders issued in Constitutional Petition No. E011 of 2026, filed by Francis Musili Kauta against IEBC and three other respondents.

“The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission hereby informs the general public that the by-election for Migwani Ward, Mwingi West Constituency, Kitui County, has been suspended following interim conservatory orders issued by the High Court on October 22, 2026,” the commission stated.

According to IEBC, the court issued the orders for a period of 30 days pending the hearing and determination of the petition.

The petition is scheduled for hearing on November 11, 2026, when the court is expected to consider the issues raised in the case.

The suspension means the planned by-election cannot proceed while the court orders remain in force, subject to any further directions issued by the court.

IEBC urged residents of Migwani Ward, political parties, candidates and other stakeholders to take note of the development as they await further communication on the electoral process.

“The Commission urges members of the public and all stakeholders to take note of this development. Further updates will be communicated through the Commission’s official channels,” the notice added.

The commission did not provide further details on the specific grounds raised in the petition or announce a new date for the by-election.

The latest development places the Migwani Ward by-election on hold as the legal process continues. Any decision on the next steps will depend on the court proceedings and subsequent directions issued by the judiciary and the electoral commission.

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