NAIROBI, Kenya, Jul 13 – The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has condemned escalating political violence and widespread electoral malpractices ahead of the Ol Kalou Constituency by-election, warning that the deteriorating security situation threatens the credibility and legitimacy of the poll.

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In a statement issued Monday, the commission cited reports of voter bribery, intimidation, organised attacks by hired gangs, unlawful night campaigns, gunshots, destruction of campaign materials and the alleged misuse of State resources during the campaign period.

KNCHR also referenced a July 9 warning by Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) Chairperson Erastus Ethekon, who flagged widespread violations of electoral laws, including voter inducement, campaigns conducted outside the legally prescribed hours, destruction of property, violence, intimidation and the loss of one life.

The electoral agency warned that it could postpone or cancel the by-election if the violations continue.

📌 What You Need to Know

“The reported incidents paint a disturbing picture of the electoral environment and undermine public confidence in the electoral process,” KNCHR said, noting that campaigns officially end Monday, 48 hours before polling day.

The commission further expressed concern that election-related violence had reportedly spread beyond Ol Kalou into neighbouring Gilgil Constituency on July 11, raising fears that politically motivated unrest could escalate if urgent action is not taken.

“The Constitution of Kenya guarantees every citizen the right to participate freely in political processes, including the rights to vote, seek elective office, assemble peacefully, associate, express political opinions and make political choices free from violence, intimidation, coercion, bribery or undue influence,” the commission stated.

KNCHR condemned political violence, voter bribery, intimidation, destruction of property, hate speech and other electoral offences, insisting that all perpetrators be held individually accountable.

The commission urged the IEBC to strictly enforce the Elections Act, the Electoral Code of Conduct and other electoral laws by taking firm and impartial action against candidates, political parties and any other actors found to have breached the law.

It also called on political parties, candidates and their supporters to immediately cease unlawful campaign activities, reject violence and conduct campaigns in accordance with the Constitution.

📰 Source: Capital FM Kenya