A chorus of political and civic leaders on Thursday condemned the widespread violence and disorder reported across several regions during the by-elections, calling for urgent reforms in electoral security and stronger enforcement of political tolerance.
While some polling areas experienced calm and orderly voting, others were marred by chaos, accusations of intimidation, clashes between rival groups, and open confrontations involving elected leaders and their supporters.
The disruptions triggered renewed debate over the country’s preparedness to conduct peaceful elections.
Former Chief Justice David Maraga and presidential hopeful was among the first to issue a strongly worded statement, terming the incidents “unacceptable” and reflective of a troubling pattern.
“The electoral violence witnessed today, and indeed in the past few weeks, is unacceptable and must be condemned in the strongest terms,” Maraga said, urging security agencies to uphold the rule of law and protect both voters and candidates.
Several leaders aligned with the ODM faction also expressed concern.
Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna described the day as “one of the bloodiest election days in recent history,” citing reports of violence from Kabuchai, Malava and Kasipul.
“All the violence being witnessed across the country points to a lack of preparedness to secure the safety of all involved,” he said.
Similarly, Siaya Governor James Orengo criticised what he termed as the “goonification” of elections, saying the country could not claim progress while still unable to guarantee safe and fair polls.
“We can’t be first world if, years after the 2010 Constitution, we can’t hold peaceful elections,” he remarked.
Jubilee Secretary General Jeremiah Kioni expressed concern over the conduct of the by-elections, cautioning that they could serve as a precursor to the 2027 General Election.
“Today’s by-elections are a clear rehearsal for what lies ahead. Someone must be held accountable,” he said.
One of the most notable incidents occurred in Kasipul, where Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma — serving as ODM’s chief agent — was assaulted at Agoro Sare Primary School polling station.
The MP sustained head injuries after being attacked by a group of goons, and a firearm was reportedly stolen during the confrontation.
He was rushed to hospital for treatment.
Following the attack, Kasipul parliamentary candidate Boyd Were condemned the violence and urged voters not to be intimidated, appealing for calm as residents exercised their democratic rights.
In Nyamira county, violence broke out during the Nyansiongo Ward by-election after groups of youths barricaded the main Kisii–Kericho highway at Metamaywa Centre.
Tensions escalated further after National Assembly Majority Whip Sylvanus Osoro allegedly attempted to access several polling stations accompanied by a group of youths, sparking resistance from some locals who blocked entry to Menyenya and Gesebei polling stations.
Police fired shots in the air to disperse the crowd and clear the road.
Borabu MP Patrick Osero, who intervened at the scene, urged residents to stop the confrontations.
“This was unnecessary. People are shocked by the level of violence witnessed in an otherwise peaceful population,” he said.
In Malava, Wednesday night's reports of an attack on DAP-K candidate Seth Panyako by suspected goons drew condemnation from party leader Eugene Wamalwa.
Earlier before by elections in Kabuchai, goons disrupted a rally addressed by Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya, vandalising property and scattering supporters.
Several leaders have since called on security agencies to act swiftly, warning that unchecked political violence could undermine the integrity of Kenya’s electoral process.
