Concerns over interference in the recent mini-polls have intensified after former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua accused President William Ruto’s administration of using goons and armed police to influence outcomes in Malava and Mbeere-North.
He claimed that what unfolded in the two constituencies showed a deliberate attempt to override the will of the people ahead of future elections.
Gachagua stated that the government allegedly sponsored groups to disrupt voting and counting processes with the help of police officers dressed in civilian clothes.
He described the incidents as part of a worrying pattern that could create tension as the country moves toward the 2027 general elections.
According to him, the use of force in places like Mbeere-North and Malava is a dangerous sign that threatens transparent elections.
He accused Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku of taking control of Gitiburi Primary School polling centre, saying the CS’s guards fired at members of the public who were protesting.
Gachagua added that agents were chased away and the counting process stopped, which in his view opened the door for manipulation. He urged young men in the area to go to the polling centre and “reclaim” it, insisting that the situation was unacceptable.
These claims emerged shortly after UDA candidates were declared winners in both constituencies. In Malava, David Ndakwa secured victory with 21,564 votes against DAP-Kenya’s Seth Panyako, who got 20,210 votes.
In Mbeere-North, Leonard Wa Muthende won after receiving 15,802 votes, defeating the Democratic Party’s Newton Kariuki, popularly known as Karish, who garnered 15,308 votes.
The results showed tight races in both regions, making the allegations even more sensitive.The by-elections were widely seen as a contest of strength between the government and the united opposition.
While UDA celebrated its victories, Gachagua insisted that the outcomes were influenced by interference rather than the free choice of voters.
He maintained that deploying goons and armed officers in civilian clothing was meant to intimidate the public and alter the results in favour of government-backed candidates.
Gachagua has repeatedly criticised the government’s handling of the polls, saying that what happened on November 27 pointed to deeper issues within the electoral system.
A day earlier, on November 26, he had already accused the state of ballot stuffing and tampering with the electoral process.
His latest remarks have added to the debate over whether the mini-polls were credible and whether similar concerns may arise in future elections.
