NAIROBI, Kenya – United Democratic Alliance (UDA) parliamentary candidate Samuel Muchina has alleged that one of his campaign vehicles was set on fire a day before the Ol Kalou by-election.
Speaking after voting on Thursday, July 16, Muchina said the vehicle, which was transporting his campaign agents, was torched in the Mugumo area on Wednesday evening. He said the incident was contained before it escalated further.
The candidate also claimed to have witnessed individuals allegedly bribing voters at a polling station on Thursday morning.
“This morning we have had two incidents. I found some individuals dishing out money to voters, but I believe IEBC will take action against those trying to bribe our voters,” he said.
Muchina said he intends to report the alleged voter bribery to the police.
“I have just come from that particular polling station and I will report the issue to the police because I am a citizen who abides by the law,” he said.
Despite the reported incidents, Muchina commended the security arrangements, saying police officers had been deployed throughout the constituency to maintain peace during the voting process.
He also urged eligible voters who had not yet cast their ballots to participate in the election.
Expressing optimism about the outcome, the UDA candidate said he was confident of victory but would respect the will of the electorate if defeated.
“I am ready for the outcome because I know I am winning. If I lose, it’s also okay. I will follow the law,” he said.
Earlier in the week, the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) urged Ol Kalou residents to report any incidents of bribery or corruption during the by-election.
EACC Director of Preventive Services Vincent Okongo said the commission is collaborating with relevant agencies to safeguard the integrity of the electoral process.
“We appeal to Kenyans to report any form of corruption through our toll-free number 1551. Report such incidents to us as soon as possible so that appropriate action can be taken,” Okongo said.