ELOG Raises Alarm Over Bribery, Harassment, and Weak Security During November 27 By-Elections

By ; Mweru Mbugua

The Election Observation Group (ELOG) has raised serious concerns over electoral integrity following the November 27, 2025, by-elections, citing cases of voter bribery, harassment, and lax security responses

During a press briefing on Wednesday, ELOG officer Mule Musau reported that electoral violence, political interference, and intimidation were widespread in constituencies including Kasipul, Malava, Mbeere North, Nairobi, and Machakos

Observers noted that some political supporters harassed election monitors, particularly in Kariobangi North, where crowds demanded cash from a vehicle carrying officials

“ELOG is concerned that security officers often failed to act decisively to prevent or stop these incidents,” Musau said

Long-term observers also documented open voter inducements, such as the distribution of relief goods, which constitute bribery under Kenyan law. Section 9 of the Electoral Offences Act stipulates that anyone offering or accepting a bribe during an election is liable to a fine of up to Ksh. 2 million, imprisonment for up to six years, or both

ELOG further flagged the involvement of high-ranking public officials and the misuse of public resources, warning that these actions could influence political party dynamics and voter behavior

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Observers also reported unauthorized access to polling stations in Kasipul, Malava, and Mbeere North, compromising vote secrecy

The group urged the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to tighten election oversight, enforce ballot secrecy, and hold violators accountable to prevent recurrence in future polls

The by-elections, which filled 24 parliamentary and ward-level seats left vacant due to deaths or cabinet appointments, were closely watched as a gauge of voter sentiment ahead of the 2027 General Election