The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has set key timelines for resolving disputes ahead of the November 27, 2025, by-elections.
In a notice issued by chairperson Erastus Ethekon, the IEBC Dispute Resolution Committee will hear and determine all disputes arising from the exercise between Wednesday, October 8 and October 17, 2025.
At the same time, the commission confirmed that the IEBC Electoral Code of Conduct Committee will be tasked with handling cases relating to breaches of the Electoral Code of Conduct.
The committee will operate from the date of publication of the by-election notice up to the gazettment of persons elected.
The commission also reminded those intending to vie as independent candidates to strictly observe the stipulated timelines, including submission of documents and compliance with regulations, to avoid disqualification.
“The commission wishes to assure the public that all disputes will be addressed fairly, transparently and within the confines of the law, in line with the commission’s mandate of delivering free, fair and credible elections,” read part of the notice signed by the chairperson.
Election dispute resolution (EDR) is the process of resolving all complaints, challenges, objections, violations, offences and petitions relating to all stages of the electoral process.
The Dispute Resolution Committee has the authority to hear complaints related to candidate registration, nomination, and violations of the electoral code of conduct.
Its goal is to ensure free, fair, and credible elections by providing a timely avenue for aggrieved parties to seek redress for electoral malpractices.
The announcement by the IEBC comes as political parties and aspirants begin preparations for the upcoming by-elections.
The official campaign period for the by-elections is October 8 to November 24, 2025.
“The campaign time will run from 7:00 am until 6:00 pm, during the campaign period,” Ethekon said.
There are a total of 23 by-elections encompassing six National Assembly seats, one Senate seat, and 16 MCA positions.
These vacancies arose due to a number of reasons, including deaths and appointments to other roles.
