KNCHR warns of escalating violence ahead of Thursday’s by-elections

The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has warned of rising violence and intimidation ahead of Thursday’s 24 by-elections.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Commission said recent incidents threaten the integrity of the vote and undermine constitutional rights.

KNCHR cited deadly clashes in Kasipul Constituency--where two people were killed--violent disruptions of campaign rallies, allegations of excessive force by police, and reports of non-uniformed officers operating in Mbeere North in defiance of a High Court ruling.

The Commission described the incidents as “criminal acts” that violate fundamental rights, including the rights to life, security, peaceful assembly and political participation.

“The Commission condemns in the strongest terms all forms of political violence, intimidation, destruction of property and excessive use of force by any party or agency,” KNCHR said, warning that such actions “severely undermine the democratic process, public trust and social cohesion."

KNCHR urged the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission to ensure the polls are managed fairly, transparently and without bias, while guaranteeing security for both voters and candidates.It called on political parties to commit to peaceful campaigns and to reject all forms of violence, hate speech and voter bribery.

Law enforcement agencies were reminded to act impartially, adhere to human rights standards and exercise restraint while maintaining order during polling.

The Commission also called on the media to avoid inflammatory reporting and on the public to support peaceful participation.To monitor compliance, KNCHR has deployed Commissioners, staff and field monitors to all affected areas.

“These teams will observe and monitor the election process and document failures in respecting human rights throughout the voting process,” it said, adding that findings will be published in a comprehensive report.

“Everyone should enjoy the right to vote and to be voted for freely without coercion, bribery or intimidation,” it added.

The by-elections--covering Senate, National Assembly and County Assembly seats--are being held to fill vacancies triggered by court decisions, deaths and resignations.

Recent campaigns have been marked by rising political tensions, with multiple clashes reported across different regions.Kasipul has emerged as one of the hotspots following fatal confrontations between rival groups.

In Mbeere North, civil society groups raised concerns after reports of plainclothes police appearing at campaign events, a move KNCHR says contradicts a High Court directive issued in earlier election-related proceedings.

The Commission has repeatedly warned that unchecked violence and police excesses have historically tainted Kenyan by-elections, where competition for local seats often turns intense despite the limited scope of the polls.

KNCHR Chairperson Claris Ogangah urged all actors to prioritise calm, saying free, fair and credible elections remain “the cornerstone of democracy”, and that the enjoyment of rights depends on strict adherence to the Constitution and the rule of law.