Polling stations across Kenya opened Thursday under tight security as voters turned out to elect representatives for the remaining term of one and a half years. The mini polls were triggered by a mix of resignations, court annulments, and deaths, prompting communities to choose new leaders.
The National Police Service (NPS) said operations began smoothly, with hundreds of officers deployed to the 22 polling centres to maintain order. Additional personnel were dispatched from areas not holding elections to reinforce security in key locations.
NPS Spokesman Muchiri Nyaga said the police are focused on protecting lives and property, preventing crime, and ensuring public safety while upholding human rights. “We are working closely with the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission in accordance with the law to ensure adequate security before, during, and after the polls,” he added.
Reports emerged of isolated incidents on Wednesday night in Narok and Kakamega, leaving two people injured in each location. Despite this, the NPS emphasized that all voters should feel safe casting their ballots.
IEBC Chairperson Erastus Ethekon assured the public of strict security measures at every polling station. “Voters are assured of a secure and peaceful environment and are urged to report any incidents through the appropriate security channels,” he said. According to the commission, each polling station will have at least two security officers, with additional teams on patrol and ready for rapid response if needed.
Security coverage extends beyond the stations, including tallying centres and strategic points in both urban and rural areas to ensure prompt intervention in any emergency.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen visited several constituencies to assess preparedness, accompanied by Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo, Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lagat, and Administration Police Chief Gilbert Masengeli. Murkomen warned that anyone attempting to disrupt the elections would be treated as a suspect.
"Our job as a government is to ensure voters are not intimidated, and when we succeed in intimidating the goons, we are very happy. When goons complain that the government is intimidating, it is my joy,” he said. He reassured women, elderly, and persons with disabilities that measures are in place to protect them during voting.
Murkomen also cautioned that vehicle owners who transport election disruptors will face accountability. Meanwhile, police urged politicians to campaign lawfully, avoiding hate speech or actions that could undermine public trust.
Nyaga reinforced that the law applies equally to everyone, irrespective of status or political affiliation. “Any individual who engages in or incites unlawful activities will face legal consequences,” he noted, adding that officers are trained to act professionally and respect everyone’s rights.
The public has been encouraged to report suspicious activity through emergency lines 999, 911, and 112, or anonymously via #FichuaKwaDci on 0800 722 203 and WhatsApp 0709 570 000.
