^{By Felix Wanjala.}

There is a sense of relief in several constituencies that have lacked parliamentary representation for nearly two years due to the absence of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC).

Among these constituencies are Banisa and Magarini. Others expected to participate in upcoming by-elections include Unguja, Malava, and Kasipul, while Baringo County is preparing to elect a new senator.

This move follows the submission of a report by the IEBC Selection Panel, chaired by Dr. Nelson Makanda, to President William Ruto. The newly reconstituted commission will be tasked with organizing by-elections in these areas as well as in various wards across the country.

In addition, the commission faces the critical responsibility of preparing for the 2027 General Election.However, some Kenyan citizens and constitutional experts have filed petitions in court, seeking to have the next General Election held in August 2026, rather than in 2027 as currently anticipated.

Earlier this year, a European-based election observer group warned that delays in reconstituting the IEBC could hamper key electoral processes, including voter registration and general election preparedness.

The new IEBC will also need to address the issue of electoral boundary review, as mandated by Article 89 of the Constitution.

This article stipulates that boundaries should be reviewed every 8 to 12 years, with the process concluded at least 12 months before a general election.

Legal experts warn that delays in this review could lead to constitutional violations.Meanwhile, the appointment of new IEBC commissioners has faced resistance from opposition leaders, led by Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka. Kalonzo has written to President Ruto demanding inclusive dialogue with the opposition before the appointments are finalized.

In his letter, he argues that ODM leader Raila Odinga no longer represents the opposition, claiming he has aligned himself with the government.