NAIROBI, Kenya — The Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC) has described the recent 27 November by-elections as among the worst campaign periods in recent memory, warning that the intensity of violence, intimidation, and voter suppression — particularly against young people — threatens the integrity of Kenya’s democratic process ahead of the 2027 polls.
KHRC Programme Officer Irene Soila condemned the level of hostility seen during the by-election campaign and voting day, saying the environment had become dangerously confrontational.
“We witnessed one of the worst campaign periods marked by violence, threats, and intimidation. A by-election shouldn’t be a do-or-die affair, yet this one turned extremely intense, even leading to loss of lives in some areas,” she said.
KHRC noted that on by-election day, the atmosphere remained volatile — a situation that coincided with notably low voter turnout, especially among youth. The commission cautioned that such conditions could deepen political disaffection and undermine public trust in the electoral process.
The concerns voiced by KHRC are echoed by other watchdogs. The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) had earlier issued a pre-poll advisory warning of potential rights violations, citing clashes, disruptions, and alleged excessive use of force by security agents in some constituencies.
Meanwhile, the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) described the incidents of violence and intimidation as limited to “isolated areas,” but acknowledged the disruption they caused.
KHRC called on security agencies, electoral stakeholders, and political actors to reflect seriously on the events of November 27, calling for transparent investigations, accountability, and robust measures to safeguard the rights of voters, especially youth, in upcoming elections.
The commission urged the public — particularly young voters — to remain engaged in democratic processes even as the government and security institutions rebuild their credibility. “Elections should never cost lives,” Soila emphasised. “Kenyans must not be threatened for choosing their preferred candidates.”
As political tensions persist and preparations intensify for the 2027 general election, KHRC’s stern warning underscores the urgent need for strengthening electoral governance, protecting civic space, and ensuring that violence does not become an accepted norm in Kenya’s democracy.
