Opposition leaders Eugene Wamalwa of the Democratic Action Party (DAP), Kalonzo Musyoka of Wiper, and Rigathi Gachagua of Democratic Coalition Party (DCP) have raised alarm over what they describe as a government plot to manipulate the November 27 by-elections.
The leaders, speaking at separate press briefings on Wedenesday, claimed that state resources and electoral mechanisms are being misused to tilt the contests in favor of certain candidates aligned with the ruling party.
“We have credible information indicating that government officials are coordinating to influence the outcomes of the upcoming by-elections,”said Eugene Wamalwa, DAP leader.
He added that attempts are already underway to intimidate opposition supporters and manipulate voter rolls.
Kalonzo Musyoka, Wiper Party leader and former vice president, echoed these concerns, urging the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to ensure transparency.
“We call on the IEBC to uphold its mandate without fear or favor. The citizens must have confidence that their votes will count, free from manipulation or coercion,” Musyoka said, warning that any interference would undermine Kenya’s democratic process.
Rigathi Gachagua, DCP leader, accused elements within the government of deploying administrative machinery to sway voters.
“It is clear that some government agencies are being misused to interfere with the electoral process. We will not stand by and allow democracy to be compromised,”
he stated.
The allegations come ahead of by-elections in several constituencies, including key political strongholds, which analysts say are crucial in gauging public sentiment ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Political observers have noted that by-elections are often a litmus test for the ruling party, making them a target for alleged manipulation.
The leaders have vowed to monitor the polls closely, warning that any attempt to rig the elections could trigger protests and legal action.
They called on Kenyans to exercise their right to vote and report any irregularities to the authorities.
The IEBC, tasked with overseeing free and fair elections, has yet to publicly respond to the allegations.
Political analysts say the commission faces heightened pressure to maintain credibility and ensure transparency in the coming polls.
“These accusations, whether verified or not, highlight the high stakes of the November 27 by-elections. The public and the media will play a critical role in ensuring the integrity of the process,” noted political analyst Dr. Grace Mwangi.
