NAIROBI, Kenya – Former Chief Justice and presidential hopeful David Maraga has condemned the violence that unfolded during Thursday’s by-elections, accusing President William Ruto’s administration of failing in its constitutional duty to protect citizens.
Maraga said the widespread unrest, reported in several constituencies, reflects what he termed the government’s growing unwillingness to safeguard democratic processes.
“The electoral violence witnessed today, and indeed in the past few weeks, is unacceptable and must be condemned in the strongest terms,” he posted on X.
He further claimed that interference by the presidency with the National Police Service and other independent institutions has eroded security and undermined democracy.
“President Ruto’s government continues to confirm that he is unable or unwilling to carry out his foremost constitutional function, protecting citizens, a mark of a leader who has lost legitimacy to govern,” he said.
The electoral violence witnessed today, and indeed in the past few weeks is unacceptable and must be condemned in the strongest terms.The interference with the National Police Service and other independent institutions does not augur well for security and democracy.
The by-elections, held in 22 regions, were marked by pockets of violence, disruptions, and reports of voter intimidation.
In Kasipul Constituency, ODM chief agent and Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma sustained a soft-tissue head injury after clashes involving supporters of independent candidate Philip Aroko.
Kaluma said he was attacked while monitoring voting, blaming the assault on Aroko’s supporters.
During the confusion, his bodyguard also lost a firearm, prompting a police investigation.
The constituency has been tense for weeks following the fatal shooting of former MP Ongondo Were, with two campaign-related deaths recorded in recent days.
ODM candidate Boyd Were urged police to act swiftly, saying those disrupting the process must be held accountable, as security was intensified across the constituency.
In Malava, Kakamega County, tension rose after DAP-K leader Eugene Wamalwa accused UDA candidate David Ndakwa of involvement in an attack on DAP-K aspirant Seth Panyako.
Wamalwa further alleged attempts to interfere with police operations at some polling stations.
Panyako claimed there had been an assassination attempt on his life, describing the threat as politically motivated.
Police and election officials say investigations are underway as voting continued under tight security.
In Magarini Constituency in Kilifi County, residents of Kanagoni chased away Kilifi South MP Ken Chonga, accusing him of acting as an unauthorised agent at a polling station.
Police later restored order and reminded the public that only accredited agents and observers may operate inside polling centres.
Meanwhile, in Narok Town Ward, a DCP candidate was hurriedly escorted away by security officers after confusion erupted outside Masikonde Primary polling station. No injuries were reported.
The Electoral Commission and security agencies are expected to give updates as counting proceeds in the violence-marred by-elections.
