IEBC warns politicians: 'Stop escalating tension or face the law'

The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has strongly condemned the outbreaks of violence that disrupted Thursday’s by-elections, warning that such incidents undermine the integrity of the electoral process and breach constitutional guarantees of free and fair elections.

In a statement released in Nairobi, the Commission expressed “grave concern” over reported cases of hooliganism, voter intimidation and lawlessness in several constituencies.

It stressed that the incidents violate Articles 81(e) and 86 of the Constitution, as well as provisions of the Elections Act, the Election Offences Act and the Elections (General) Regulations.

In Malava Constituency, Kakamega County, a Toyota Prado belonging to a candidate’s convoy was set ablaze in Manyonje village, Butali Ward.

In a separate incident nearby, at least two people were injured during clashes between rival groups at a local hotel.

Police confirmed that investigations are ongoing.

In Kasipul Constituency, Homa Bay County, chaos erupted at Agoro Sare Primary School polling station, where Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma, who was acting as an observer and chief agent of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) candidate, was attacked.

His bodyguard’s firearm was stolen during the assault. It was reported afterwards that the officers apprehended 17 individuals and the firearm retrieved.

Several other confrontations were reported near polling centres, prompting security officers to intervene.

The IEBC described the involvement of political actors in actions that escalate tension as “unlawful, irresponsible and utterly unacceptable in a democratic society”.

As vote counting continues, the Commission has reminded all stakeholders that access to polling stations and tallying centres remains strictly regulated.

Only IEBC officials, accredited agents, observers, assigned security personnel and, where applicable, accredited media are permitted entry.

“Tallying centres are protected areas and no unauthorised persons will be allowed,” the statement read.

The IEBC urged security personnel deployed for the by-elections to remain vigilant and prevent any further violence or disruption during the counting, tallying and announcement of results.

It further called on the National Police Service and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations to thoroughly investigate all reported incidents and ensure that those responsible are swiftly arrested and prosecuted.

Despite the disturbances, the Commission praised voters in most areas for conducting themselves peacefully throughout the day, noting that the isolated incidents should not overshadow the commitment demonstrated by the majority of Kenyans to democratic processes.