Stand firm and neutral, Gachagua tells IEBC ahead of by-elections

DCP leader Rigathi Gachagua/X

Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua has called on the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to safeguard the integrity of the upcoming by-elections, particularly in Magarini Constituency.

In a statement posted on Monday, Gachagua urged the commission and its chairperson, Edung Ethekon, to maintain neutrality and ensure voters’ confidence in the electoral process.

Gachagua appealed to the electoral agency to act firmly and independently, noting that Kenya’s democratic reputation depends on credible and transparent polls.

“We call for the Mr chairman, you protect officials and Magarini and other electoral areas from harassment and intimidation,” he stated, emphasising the need for fairness in the conduct of all electoral officers deployed to Magarini and other by-election areas.

While addressing concerns raised by his party regarding the management of the forthcoming polls, the DCP leader said the IEBC must ensure that the environment is conducive for all contestants.

He urged the chairperson to uphold professionalism and to protect IEBC staff from any form of pressure.

Gachagua added that the commission has a significant responsibility ahead of the next general election.

According to him, public confidence in the IEBC will be shaped by how it handles the current by-elections.

“You have the moral duty and responsibility to earn the trust of the people of Kenya ahead of the 2027 General Elections,” he noted.

The former deputy president reiterated that the stability of the country depends on peaceful and transparent electoral processes.

He encouraged the IEBC to maintain open communication with all participating parties to promote confidence.

The DCP leader has previously praised its Magarini by-election candidate, Stanley Kenga Karisa, describing him as a steadfast and dependable leader who has consistently stood with the constituency over the years.

Speaking during his official unveiling, he expressed confidence in Karisa’s ability to offer grounded, people-centered leadership.

“The future can only be bright for you and the people of Magarini. I urge you to be with the people, listen to them, and win, which can only be yours,” he said.

The DCP leadership echoed this message, emphasising that Magarini deserves a leader grounded in local realities and committed to delivering meaningful change.

Karisa is expected to face stiff competition, particularly from ODM candidate Harry Kombe, who enters the race with significant political backing and is also receiving backing from the United Democratic Alliance (UDA).

As campaigns intensify, all eyes will be on how candidates present their agenda for Magarini and how voters respond to the competing visions for the constituency’s future.