Opposition demands IEBC cracks down on poll offenders

United Opposition leaders led by Kalonzo Musyoka, Fred Matiang'i, Eugene Wamalwa, Justin Muturi and other leaders when they joined worshippers at the ATG-Kangundo Altar during a church dedication service along Kangundo Roa d, June 5, 2026. [Kanyiri Wahito, Standard] The Opposition has challenged the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to take firm action against individuals violating electoral laws ahead of the Ol Kalou parliamentary by-election, saying the conduct of Thursday's mini poll will determine the commission's credibility ahead of the 2027 General Election. Speaking on behalf of the United opposition, Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka said the electoral agency must enforce the law without fear or favour, including taking action against senior government officials accused of interfering with the electoral process. "As you preside over the Ol Kalou by-election, do so under the law and perform your duties with utmost professionalism and impartiality. You have the power to sanction anyone, including bigwigs in government who violate the electoral laws, as well as those who orchestrate violence. Do not stand idle while the integrity of elections and your very own office is eroded," Kalonzo said. He said the Ol Kalou by-election would be the first major test of the reconstituted commission, adding that the manner in which it handles the election would demonstrate whether it is an independent referee capable of delivering a free, fair and credible General Election. Kalonzo also accused President William Ruto of attempting to influence the by-election, claiming invitations are circulating for thousands of Ol Kalou residents to attend a State House function on the eve of the poll amounted to voter bribery. "This is the highest level of bribery. It is an election offence. The IEBC and the police should not wait for complaints. They should act because a crime is about to be committed," he said. The Opposition further urged Kenyans to reject political violence and intimidation, saying elections should never be won through fear or force. "Elections come and go, but Kenya remains. Kenya is bigger than any one individual. Goonism has no place in Kenya now or ever. Our answer to violence must never be more violence. Our answer must be justice, constitutionalism and the rule of law," the leaders said. The coalition expressed concern over what it described as escalating political violence, citing recent incidents in Kisumu and Nyahururu where opposition leaders were reportedly attacked. Former Attorney General Justin Muturi said that while independent investigations should establish the full facts surrounding the incidents, there was already a worrying pattern of intolerance directed at opposition figures. "The disturbing scenes witnessed in Kisumu and Nyahururu should concern every Kenyan regardless of political affiliation. They point to a dangerous and growing pattern of political violence that threatens our constitutional democracy, national cohesion and the rule of law," Muturi said. "However, what is already evident is that political intolerance is steadily replacing democratic engagement. The Constitution of Kenya guarantees every citizen the right to assemble peacefully, associate freely, move without intimidation and participate in political life. No Kenyan should fear attending a church service, a political meeting or any lawful public gathering," he added. Muturi linked the latest incidents to previous attacks on opposition leaders , including an April incident in Kikuyu involving Kalonzo Musyoka, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and DAP-K leader Eugene Wamalwa, as well as last week's confrontation involving People's Liberation Party leader Martha Karua at Gatoto Primary School in Mukuru kwa Reuben. "These incidents, together with events unfolding across the country, raise serious questions about whether public institutions are discharging their constitutional obligations impartially and effectively. Kenya cannot become a nation where organised violence is answered by organised retaliation," he said. He warned that ordinary Kenyans, rather than politicians, bear the greatest consequences of political violence. Stay informed. Subscribe to our newsletter