Tension between the ruling party and the opposition rose on Wednesday as the United Democratic Alliance countered accusations of a planned scheme to influence Thursday’s by-elections, saying the allegations were an effort to cast doubt on the process before ballots are cast.
In its response, UDA said the complaints raised by the United Opposition were not backed by any evidence and were instead aimed at weakening public trust in the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission. The party argued that the opposition was attempting to prepare its supporters for a possible defeat by questioning institutions in advance.
Describing the claims as political theatre, UDA said its rivals were recycling a tactic they turn to whenever they feel unprepared for an electoral contest. “Their strategy of attacking democratic institutions whenever they face possible losses is outdated and counterproductive,” the statement read.
The party said the IEBC had handled the by-election preparations in an open manner and had engaged all political actors throughout the process. It said Kenya’s democracy was supported by clear systems and an electoral body that had shown consistency and openness in carrying out its mandate.
“The commission has demonstrated professionalism and transparency in overseeing these elections,” the party said.
UDA criticised attempts to link state agencies to the claims of interference, insisting that officers on the ground were only performing their duty to secure the exercise.
The party urged Kenyans not to be swayed by talk meant to create suspicion around agencies tasked with protecting voters.
“To suggest otherwise without a shred of tangible evidence is to undermine the very foundation of our democracy,” UDA said as it encouraged the IEBC to remain attentive to its work and avoid being sidetracked by political claims.
“We urge the IEBC to continue with their duty of conducting a free and transparent process.”
The ruling party also appealed to voters to come out in large numbers, saying the opposition’s warnings should not discourage them from taking part in choosing their next leaders. It said security arrangements had been put in place and that there was no reason for voters to fear disruptions.
Meanwhile, the United Opposition continued to insist that signs of bias were already visible.
On Tuesday, DCP party leader Rigathi Gachagua wrote to IEBC Chairperson Erastus Ethekon claiming there was “planned vote rigging,” pointing to incidents in Narok where he said his campaign efforts had been blocked.
A day later, he repeated the concerns, saying their candidate’s home in Narok Town had been attacked. According to him, such incidents could affect turnout and restrict voters from expressing their choice without pressure.
The IEBC reiterated that the preparations were on course and urged all political groups to use official channels for any objections that may arise during the process.
As the parties maintained their contrasting positions, the country moved closer to a high-stakes vote expected to draw close attention.
