Religious leaders raise alarm over by-election chaos ahead of 2027 polls

Led by chair Peter Manyuru, the religious leaders said the violence witnessed during Thursday’s by-elections indicates that the stakes in the general election will be high and require all hands on deck.

The Pentecostal Churches of Kenya have stepped forward to sound the alarm, saying the just-concluded by-elections have painted a grim picture of the country’s readiness to hold a high-stake general election.

Habil Olembo, Secretary General of Pentecostal Voices of Kenya, said, “The chaos was worrying, and it is an indication of turmoil we are likely to witness in 2027. Elections are supposed to be a substitute for violence and anarchy.”

Peter Manyuru, chair of Pentecostal Voices of Kenya, added, “Tumekuja kulaani kama kanisa yale vitendo ya violence na malpractice.”

The religious leaders cited the race in Mbeere North, where in some instances goons attacked polling stations, causing fear and intimidating electoral officials and voters.

Habil Olembo said, “In Mbeere North, we witnessed reports of blatant bribery and misuse of state machinery.”

In Kasipul constituency in Homa Bay County, goons reportedly took over polling stations. Using crude weapons, they attacked voters and in Agoro Sare assaulted ODM chief agent and Homa Bay MP Peter Kaluma.

During the campaigns, the goons allegedly caused havoc that resulted in deaths in Kasipul, prompting the IEBC to summon two candidates, Boyd Were of ODM and independent candidate Philip Aroko, and fine them Ksh.1 million each. The church said the penalties were insufficient and called for stiffer punishments.

Peter Manyuru said, “Tungependa IEBC ichukue hatua zaidi. Isikuwe tu wanapewa warning ama fines. IEBC iende zaidi iwabar from kuwa in any elective position.”

Habil Olembo added, “We call upon all concerned government agencies, IEBC and NCIC, to be firm and proactive. They should not turn a blind eye in pursuit of government-allied politicians.”

The church also urged the youth to register as voters to participate in the electoral process and help avoid violence.