Elections in Kenya play a vital role in the democratic process, enabling citizens to elect their leaders at different levels of government. The electoral process is governed by established laws and overseen by independent bodies to ensure transparency and fairness.
Voters often have various concerns and uncertainties about the electoral process. This article addresses common areas of interest by answering some frequently asked questions about elections in Kenya.
By providing clear and accurate information, it aims to enhance voter awareness and participation.
Some of the frequently asked questions about elections in Kenya are as follows.
What is a rejected vote in Kenya?
A rejected vote in Kenya is a ballot deemed invalid and not counted for any candidate due to marking errors, being left blank, unauthorized markings, placement in the wrong ballot box, or physical damage. These votes are separated during counting and excluded from the final tally, though their total number is recorded in the election results.
What percentage of votes do you need to win an election in Kenya?
The percentage of votes required to win an election in Kenya varies by position. In a presidential election, a candidate must secure more than 50% of the total valid votes cast and at least 25% of the votes in at least 24 of the 47 counties to win in the first round; otherwise, a runoff is held between the top two candidates. For other positions (Governor, Senator, MP, MCA, Women Representative), the candidate with the most valid votes (simple majority) wins, with no specific percentage requirement.
What is the meaning of 50% plus one in Kenyan elections?
In Kenyan elections, “50% plus one” means a presidential candidate must secure more than half of the valid votes to win in the first round. This requires at least 50% of the votes plus one additional vote, along with at least 25% of the votes in at least 24 of the 47 counties. For example, if 10 million valid votes are cast, a candidate must get at least 5,000,001 votes to meet this threshold. If no candidate achieves this, a runoff election is held between the top two candidates.
How many votes does a presidential candidate need to win in Kenya?
To win Kenya’s presidential election in the first round, a candidate must secure more than 50% of the total valid votes cast (50% +1 vote) and at least 25% of the votes in at least 24 of the 47 counties. For example, if 15 million valid votes are cast, a candidate needs at least 7,500,001 votes to meet this threshold. If no candidate achieves this, a runoff election is held between the top two candidates.
How many terms can an MCA serve in Kenya?
In Kenya, a Member of the County Assembly (MCA) can serve an unlimited number of terms, as long as they are re-elected by voters in their ward during each general election. Since there is no term limit for MCAs in the Constitution, they can continue serving as long as they win elections every five years.
Who appoints the chairman of IEBC in Kenya?
The Chairman of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) in Kenya is appointed by the President, subject to approval by the National Assembly. The appointment follows a competitive selection process conducted by a selection panel, which shortlists candidates and forwards names to the President for nomination before parliamentary vetting and final approval.
How long can an MP serve in Kenya?
In Kenya, a Member of Parliament (MP) can serve an unlimited number of terms, as long as they are re-elected by voters in their constituency during each general election. Since there is no term limit for MPs in the Constitution, they can continue serving as long as they win elections every five years.
Who chooses the Vice President in Kenya?
In Kenya, the Vice President, officially known as the Deputy President (DP), is chosen by the presidential candidate before a general election. The Deputy President runs on a joint ticket with the presidential candidate and is elected alongside the President by the people. Once elected, the Deputy President serves as the principal assistant to the President and assumes the presidency if the office becomes vacant.
What is Article 142 of the Kenyan Constitution?
Article 142 of the Kenyan Constitution states that the President serves a five-year term from the date of being sworn in and cannot hold office for more than two terms. This means a President can serve a maximum of 10 years if re-elected for a second term.
