United Opposition Alleges State-Sponsored Plot to Rig By-Elections

By John Toris 

NAIROBI – The United Opposition coalition has issued a bold statement today against the government and the electoral body, leveling accusations of a coordinated plot to subvert tomorrow's critical by-elections through bribery, ballot fraud, and state-sponsored violence.

PHOTO: Wiper Party Leader Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka addressing members of the press today in Nairobi 

In a statement, Wiper Party Leader Kalonzo Musyoka detailed a account of alleged abuses. “There are accusations of shameless bribery and manipulation of voters by senior state officers,” he stated, mentioning key government officials as among those accused of misusing state machinery, government vehicles, and relief food.

The coalition raised grave concerns over electoral materials, alleging that the serialization of 820,000 ballots was flawed, “creating a loophole for ballot stuffing.” They further stated that 30,000 pre-marked ballots had been dispatched to battleground areas like Magarini and Malaba through “compromised presiding officers.”

Adding to the statement, DCP Leader Rigathi Gachagua asserted that the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) is fully “compromised.” He alleged a scheme where “pre-marked ballot papers” would be introduced during staged chaos. “The CEO of the IEBC is accused of overseeing this exercise,” Gachagua claimed.

PHOTO: Former Deputy President and DCP Leader Rigathi Gachagua addressing members of the press today in Nairobi 

The opposition also warned of violence being deployed as a tool. Musyoka cited Malaba, where goons reportedly under the command of Lugari MP are expected to spark violence, protected by a special police team. Gachagua detailed alleged intimidation in Narok, accusing the governor of mobilizing groups to target the Kikuyu community and those opposing the government to prevent them from voting.

The IEBC was criticized for its weak and insufficient response to these concerns. “By failing to address genuine concerns, the IEBC is casting doubt on its independence,” Musyoka said, urging the commission to assure openness.

The United Opposition  further called on its supporters to turn out in large numbers, vote, remain peaceful, and stay vigilant, framing the by-elections as a pivotal test for Kenya's democratic institutions.

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