The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has announced plans to deploy plain-clothes and uniformed security officers in the upcoming Mbeere-North, Malava, and Kasipul parliamentary by-elections. IEBC Commissioner Alutalala Mukhwana revealed the decision on Tuesday, November 25, citing rising political tensions in these areas.
“The competitiveness of these elections could possibly trigger disagreements, and tempers will rise, and it has already risen,” Mukhwana said, while assuring the public of adequate safety measures.
The Commission emphasized that the deployment of security personnel aims to safeguard voters and electoral officials, ensuring the credibility of the polls. “We have put in place adequate security, and there is a high level of security in the hotly contested areas,” added Mukhwana.
The decision comes as these constituencies have recently experienced political unrest. In Kasipul, Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) candidate Boyd Were and his Independent rival, Philip Aroko, were fined Ksh1 million each for allegedly instigating violence during campaign activities. IEBC instructed both candidates to pay the fines within 48 hours or face further disciplinary action, which could include disqualification.
Meanwhile, in Malava, United Democratic Alliance (UDA) candidate David Ndakwa has faced accusations of voter bribery and using state resources in his campaign. Ndakwa dismissed the claims, describing them as political propaganda and insisting that he relied solely on his personal resources during campaigning.
The upcoming by-elections in Mbeere-North, Malava, and Kasipul have been described as highly competitive, prompting the IEBC to bolster security measures to prevent conflicts and ensure a smooth electoral process. The Commission has pledged to engage all necessary resources to maintain law and order before, during, and after the polls.
With political temperatures running high, these measures are expected to help maintain peace and protect democratic processes in the contested constituencies.
