How Kenya elects a president
When is the election?
The Constitution sets the general election for the second Tuesday in August every fifth year. The next one is Tuesday 10 August 2027. Kenyans vote on the same day for the president, governors, senators, MPs, women's representatives and county assembly members.
Who can run for president?
A candidate must be nominated by a political party or stand as an independent, and must have the support of at least 2,000 registered voters from each of a majority of the counties (Article 137). The candidate also names a running mate, who becomes deputy president if they win. The law sets further requirements such as education and integrity standards, so always check the current rules with the IEBC (iebc.or.ke).
How many terms can a president serve?
A president can serve a maximum of two five-year terms. William Ruto was elected in 2022, so he is eligible to seek a second and final term in 2027.
What does a candidate need to win?
In the first round a candidate needs both of these:
- More than 50% of all valid votes cast nationwide, and
- At least 25% of the votes in more than half of the counties, which means at least 24 of the 47 counties.
We explain both tests in 50% + 1 and 25% in 24 counties.
What if nobody wins?
If no candidate meets both tests, a runoff between the two leading candidates is held within 30 days. Read what happens in a presidential runoff. In the latest poll (Infotrak July 2026) the front-runner, William Ruto, is on 32%, well short of 50%, so a runoff is a real possibility.
What happens after the vote?
The IEBC must declare the winner within seven days of the election. Anyone can challenge the result in the Supreme Court within seven days of the declaration, and the court has 14 days to decide. If there is no petition, the president-elect is sworn in about two weeks after the declaration.
Past results
| Year | Winner | Winner's share | Runner-up | Runner-up |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2013 | Uhuru Kenyatta | 50.51% | Raila Odinga | 43.70% |
| 2017 (annulled, Aug) | Uhuru Kenyatta | 54.27% | Raila Odinga | 44.74% |
| 2022 | William Ruto | 50.49% | Raila Odinga | 48.85% |
The Supreme Court annulled the August 2017 result and a fresh election was held on 26 October 2017. Shares are from IEBC declarations as reported at the time.
Frequently asked
When is the 2027 Kenya presidential election?
Tuesday 10 August 2027, the second Tuesday of August.
Can William Ruto run again in 2027?
Yes. A Kenyan president can serve two five-year terms. Ruto was elected in 2022, so 2027 would be his second and final term if he wins.
What does a candidate need to win the first round?
More than 50% of all votes cast and at least 25% of the votes in more than half of the 47 counties (24 counties).