In what seemed like a failed test in readiness for the main exam, the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission’s conduct of the by-elections left the masses displeased. As the 2027 general election nears, the IEBC chairperson, Erastus Edung Ethekon’s preparedness for the same has been put in doubt.
With the opposition threatening to lodge a legal complaint over the exercise, particularly in Mbeere North and Malava, the observers’ remarks did not favour the embattled body. Observers cited violence, voter bribery and intimidation as major flaws that undermined the credibility of the announced results.
In a joint report released on 3rd December 2025, the Election Observation Group (ELOG) and Vocal Africa said the electoral process was marred from start to finish, resulting in low voter turnout and raising fresh concerns about the country’s preparedness for the 2027 General Election.
Three Dead, Dozens Injured
According to the observers, three people were killed during the campaign and voting period, while dozens of others sustained serious injuries. Cases of property destruction were widespread.
In Kasipul, it is alleged that a hospital owned by an aspirant, Newton Ogada, was raided and vandalised, and several vehicles in the compound were set ablaze. Said Khalid Hussein, the executive Director of Vocal Africa, highlighted in disbelief the high level of destruction and injuries witnessed in areas where the exercise was taking place.
“We have recorded three deaths and many injured people during the whole election and campaign process,” said Khalid
The report spotlighted numerous cases of electoral malpractice across the polling stations. Of particular concern was the number of voters seen photographing their marked ballot papers, a violation of Article 81 (d) of the Constitution, which requires secret voting.
“In 15% of the polling stations, voters were seen photographing marked ballot papers. That means mobile phones were allowed into the voting booth,” ELOG Head Superintendent Mulle Musau said.
The observers accused the police of a selective response to incidents of violence and intimidation.
In Mbeere North, former Attorney General Justin Muturi was captured on video allegedly assaulting a supporter of an opposing candidate. Police intervention, however, was described as inconsistent.
The observers said several politicians accessed polling stations without proper accreditation, while some state officials allegedly exerted pressure on electoral staff, compromising their independence.
Campaigning and voter influence reportedly continued openly on election day, in clear violation of electoral laws.
ELOG and Vocal Africa concluded their report that the by-elections did not meet constitutional standards, warning that persistent flaws continue to erode the country’s democratic foundations more than a decade after the 2010 Constitution was adopted.
The newly vetted Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) is now facing questions over its ability to conduct credible elections.
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