The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has condemned acts of violence and intimidation reported in isolated areas during Thursday’s by-elections.
Chairman Erastus Ethekon urged all political actors and voters to uphold the principles of peaceful participation.
Speaking in a statement, Ethekon emphasized that elections are a democratic exercise, and no individual or group has the right to compromise the safety or integrity of the process.
He confirmed that IEBC is working closely with security agencies to restore calm in affected areas and ensure swift action against any perpetrators.
“Elections are a democratic exercise, and no individual or group has the right to compromise the peace, safety, or integrity of the process,” Ethekon said. “We are working closely with security agencies to ensure swift action against any perpetrators, and to restore calm where disturbances have occurred.”
The commission noted that the reported incidents were isolated and did not affect the overall conduct of voting. Security personnel have been deployed in hotspots to maintain order and safeguard polling stations.
Ethekon called on candidates and their supporters to respect the rule of law and maintain a peaceful environment throughout the electoral period.
He reiterated that the commission is committed to a transparent and credible by-election process, in line with Kenya’s constitutional and electoral framework.
The IEBC’s statement follows concerns raised by stakeholders over violence in the Thursday by-elections, highlighting the need for heightened security and civic responsibility during voting exercises.
By Newshub