Marking a ballot paper correctly is essential to ensure that a vote counts in an election. Errors in marking can result in spoilt votes or unintentional selection of the wrong candidate. Below is a detailed guide on how to properly mark a ballot paper during elections in Kenya.
Types of Elections in Kenya
During general elections, Kenyan voters elect candidates for the following positions:
- President and Deputy President (on a joint ticket)
- Members of the National Assembly (representing constituencies)
- Members of the Senate
- County Women Representatives
- Governor and Deputy Governor (on a joint ticket)
- Members of the County Assembly (MCA) (also known as Ward Representatives)
Features of a Ballot Paper
Each ballot paper issued by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) contains the following:
✅ A serial number
✅ Names of candidates
✅ Political party symbols (for party-affiliated candidates)
✅ Candidate portraits
✅ A marking space
✅ Instructions on how to mark
✅ Security features to prevent fraud
How to Correctly Mark a Ballot Paper
To cast a valid vote, a voter should follow these steps:
- Identify the candidate of choice on the ballot paper.
- If voting for a political party candidate, mark in the space next to their name, portrait, and party symbol.
- If voting for an independent candidate, mark in the space next to their name and portrait.
- Make only ONE mark on the ballot paper in the space provided.
- The voter must use only two approved symbols:
- Tick (✓)
- Cross (✗)
- The voter must use only two approved symbols:
- Ensure the mark is correctly placed
- The mark should be inside the box next to the chosen candidate’s name.
- Any additional marks or symbols may invalidate the vote.
- Check for the official IEBC stamp on the back of the ballot paper.
- Cast the ballot paper into the correct ballot box by matching the color of the ballot paper with the lid of the ballot box:PositionBallot Paper ColorBallot Box Lid ColorPresidentWhiteWhiteGovernorBlueBlueSenatorYellowYellowCounty Assembly Ward Representative (MCA)BeigeBeigeMember of Parliament (MP)GreenGreenCounty Woman RepresentativePurplePurple
What to Avoid
❌ Making multiple marks on the same ballot paper.
❌ Using any symbol other than a tick (✓) or a cross (✗).
❌ Writing anything on the ballot paper that could reveal identity.
❌ Folding the ballot paper in a way that hides the stamp.
❌ Placing the ballot paper in the wrong ballot box.
Following these guidelines ensures that the vote is counted and contributes to a free, fair, and credible election in Kenya.
