If Thursday’s by-elections were a test run for 2027, Kenya has failed the audition.
That is the grim verdict from opposition leaders and civil society after a day of “widespread violence and disorder” marred voting in Kabuchai, Malava, and Kasipul.
What should have been a democratic exercise descended into open confrontations, with Jubilee Secretary General Jeremiah Kioni labeling the chaos a “clear rehearsal” for the upcoming General Election.
“Today’s by-elections are a clear rehearsal for what lies ahead. Someone must be held accountable,” Kioni warned, suggesting that the “goonification” of the process is a deliberate strategy rather than an accident.
The sentiment was echoed by Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, who termed the polls “one of the bloodiest election days in recent history.”
The widespread disruption has triggered a fierce debate on the country’s preparedness, with fears that if the electoral commission and security agencies cannot manage a few constituencies now, the 2027 polls could face a catastrophic security collapse.
For a nation striving to solidify its democratic gains, Thursday was a stark reminder that the specter of electoral violence is far from exorcised.
One of the most notable incidents occurred in Kasipul, where Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma — serving as ODM’s chief agent, was assaulted at Agoro Sare Primary School polling station.
The MP sustained head injuries after being attacked by a group of goons, and a firearm was reportedly stolen during the confrontation.
He was rushed to hospital for treatment.
Following the attack, Kasipul parliamentary candidate Boyd Were condemned the violence and urged voters not to be intimidated, appealing for calm as residents exercised their democratic rights.
In Nyamira county, violence broke out during the Nyansiongo Ward by-election after groups of youths barricaded the main Kisii–Kericho highway at Metamaywa Centre.
Tensions escalated further after National Assembly Majority Whip Sylvanus Osoro allegedly attempted to access several polling stations accompanied by a group of youths, sparking resistance from some locals who blocked entry to Menyenya and Gesebei polling stations.
Police fired shots in the air to disperse the crowd and clear the road.
Borabu MP Patrick Osero, who intervened at the scene, urged residents to stop the confrontations.
“This was unnecessary. People are shocked by the level of violence witnessed in an otherwise peaceful population,” he said.
In Malava, Wednesday night’s reports of an attack on DAP-K candidate Seth Panyako by suspected goons drew condemnation from party leader Eugene Wamalwa
