Elections & Referendums
Understand how elections, voting, referendums, voter registration, and electoral institutions work in Kenya.
Elections are the primary way citizens choose leaders at the national and county levels. Kenya also allows constitutional referendums where citizens directly vote on constitutional amendments and major national questions.
Explore election topics
- General ElectionsLearn about presidential, parliamentary, gubernatorial, senatorial, county assembly, and women representative elections.
- By-ElectionsAccess information about parliamentary, county, and ward by-elections held after vacancies arise.
- ReferendumsUnderstand constitutional referendums, amendment procedures, and public voting processes.
- Voter RegistrationLearn how citizens register as voters and understand eligibility requirements under Kenyan law.
- Electoral InstitutionsExplore institutions involved in elections, including the IEBC and electoral dispute mechanisms.
- Election ResultsAccess election results archives, official declarations, and electoral outcome summaries.
Kenya’s electoral system
Kenya conducts elections under the Constitution of Kenya, 2010 and electoral laws administered primarily by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC).
Citizens elect leaders at both the national and county levels through periodic elections. Elections are generally held every five years.
Elective positions in Kenya
- President
- Governor
- Senator
- Member of Parliament (MP)
- County Woman Representative
- Member of County Assembly (MCA)
Electoral principles
The Constitution requires elections to be:
- Free and fair
- Transparent
- Administered impartially
- Conducted by secret ballot
- Free from violence and intimidation
Referendums in Kenya
Referendums allow citizens to vote directly on constitutional amendments and other major constitutional matters affecting governance and the structure of the state.
Election information may be updated periodically based on constitutional provisions, electoral laws, court decisions, official notices, and public records.
Published: 19 May 2026 • Last updated: 19 May 2026
This information is regularly reviewed to ensure accuracy.