EMBU, Kenya — Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Dr. Fred Matiang’i has issued a strong warning to the government, saying that what he described as escalating electoral malpractices in the recent Mbeere North by-election risks plunging Kenya into political instability.
Addressing mourners at a funeral in Kanyuambora on Saturday, Matiang’i urged the State to uphold the integrity of elections and end abuse of public resources for political gain.
Matiang’i condemned what he called “unprecedented misuse of state power,” including deployment of government machinery, lavish spending, and alleged voter intimidation.
“The founders of this nation … must be turning in their graves to see what we’re seeing now,” he said, arguing that constant harassment and arrogance toward citizens could provoke unpredictable reactions.
Drawing on his own experience, the former Interior CS warned: “Power comes and goes … these practices will destroy our country.”
The former Agriculture Cabinet Secretary, Mithika Linturi, echoed concerns over the high cost of the by-election — reportedly around Sh 600 million — arguing that the funds could better serve development projects in Mbeere North.
“Come 2027 … what we saw will not be repeated because nobody will have that kind of machinery and power and money to spend on one seat,” he declared, predicting political consequences for the ruling administration.
Meanwhile, Democratic Party leader and former Speaker of the National Assembly, Justin Muturi, announced that the party is considering legal action, citing alleged irregularities during voting and tallying.
“We shall consider every option available, including seeking legal redress, because elections must reflect the true will of the people,” he said.
Other political figures present at the funeral — including Nyamira Senator Okong’o Omogeni and Runyenjes MP Muchangi Karemba — called for transparency, public trust, and reforms to safeguard future elections.
Analysts note that Mbeere North’s controversial by-election has reignited national debate around electoral integrity, use of state resources during campaigns, and the need for robust legal and institutional safeguards ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The chorus of criticism from senior leaders underscores the growing pressure on the government to reform election financing and enforce impartiality in the run-up to the next national polls.
