IEBC condemns violence in by-elections, warns political actors involved

The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has condemned incidents of violence and disruption reported during Thursday’s by-elections, warning that actions witnessed in some regions violate electoral laws and undermine constitutional principles on credible elections.

In a statement issued by Chairperson Erastus Ethekon on Thursday, the commission said it was gravely concerned by reports of intimidation, hooliganism and interference with voting processes, noting that the conduct goes against Article 81(e) of the Constitution, which requires elections to be free from violence, coercion and corruption. 

The IEBC added that the acts also breach the Elections Act, the Election Offences Act and the Elections (General) Regulations.

The commission further raised alarm over claims that some political actors and public figures were involved in activities that escalated tensions in polling areas, terming such behaviour unlawful and irresponsible.

"Reports suggesting the involvement of political actors and public figures in actions that heighten tensions are especially concerning. Such behaviour is unlawful, irresponsible, and unacceptable in a democratic society," Ethekon said.

As voting closed, IEBC clarified that access to polling stations during counting and to tallying centres during verification will be restricted to authorised persons only. 

Those permitted include IEBC officials, accredited party and candidate agents, duly accredited observers, security personnel and accredited members of the media.

The commission emphasized that tallying centres are protected zones and no unauthorised individuals will be allowed in.

The IEBC boss also urged security personnel deployed in the mini-polls to stay alert and act swiftly to prevent violence or attempts to disrupt the counting and declaration of results. 

He called on the National Police Service (NPS) and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to investigate all incidents reported and ensure those responsible are prosecuted.

Ethekon said the commission’s Elections Code of Conduct Committee will take up complaints relating to breaches of election laws and regulations.

Despite the scattered incidents, IEBC commended voters in most parts of the country for maintaining peace and exercising their democratic rights.

"IEBC remains steadfast in concluding the remaining steps of the electoral process in full compliance with the Constitution and the laws of Kenya. The public will be informed of the final results in due course," Ethekon noted. 

The statement comes amid unrest in Kasipul Constituency after police officers arrested 17 people found with crude weapons during the by-election. 

According to Homa Bay County Police Commander Lawrence Koilem, the police are yet to establish the group's intentions, citing that security agencies would not allow any form of disruption during the by-election.