The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has dismissed claims of electoral malpractice in the upcoming Magarini Constituency by-election scheduled for November 27, 2025. The Commission assured political parties and the public that the poll will be conducted with integrity and transparency.
The clarification comes after Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua accused IEBC Vice Chairperson Fahima Araphat of interfering with by-election preparations. In a letter to IEBC Chairperson Erastus Ethekon dated November 24, Gachagua alleged that Araphat had “bullied, intimidated, and coerced” election officials and colluded with Kilifi Governor Gideon Mung’aro in a bribery scheme to influence the election outcome.
According to Gachagua, Araphat demanded the contacts of all presiding officers and later met Governor Mung’aro at a Malindi hotel, where a bribe was allegedly negotiated and deposited the following day. He called for the replacement of IEBC officials in Magarini and protection for staff against intimidation.
In response, IEBC rejected the allegations, confirming that all election procedures were conducted in line with the law. The Commission noted that Returning Officers were appointed on August 8, 2025, via Gazette Notices Nos. 11158 and 11159, emphasizing that these officials operate independently and are not subject to external influence.
The Commission further highlighted that the recruitment of poll officials adheres to the Elections (General) Regulations, 2012, and that the list of selected officials was shared with political parties on November 14, 2025, allowing for observations or objections. Training for poll staff is ongoing, and no deployment to polling stations or tallying centres has taken place.
IEBC reiterated that the by-election will follow the full electoral-legal framework, with accredited observers, political party agents, and other authorized stakeholders ensuring transparency. All officials have been instructed to act lawfully, impartially, and professionally.
“The Commission remains committed to safeguarding the integrity of the Magarini by-election and upholding the Constitution, the law, and all applicable regulations,” IEBC stated.
