BY-ELECTIONS: Vocal Africa Reveals State Resource Exploitation, Violence
Vocal Africa Group claims its preliminary findings on the impending mini-polls show that the political milieu surrounding the November 27 by-election has been marred by electoral malpractices.
Addressing the media at its Nairobi headquarters, the human rights and pro-democracy organization warned of an increase in electoral violence.
Furthermore, there has been a rise in open bribery and involvement of state authorities in party campaigns, with warnings that if not addressed, these practices may jeopardize the integrity of the by-elections.
The preliminary results of the group’s planned mini-polls show an increase in electoral violence and the exploitation of state resources by incumbent political actors.
In addition, state officers actively participate in partisan campaigns, electoral laws and codes of conduct are not enforced, voters and opposing candidates are openly bribed and intimidated, and security actors respond slowly and inconsistently.
Alarm over campaign violence
— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) November 25, 2025
Vocal Africa Group sounds the alarm over electoral violence
Group accuses govt of misusing state resources in campaigns
Khalid: Findings expose widespread voter bribery and intimidation
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“As we present these preliminary findings, we do so with deep concern and a sense of responsibility to alert Kenyans on the emerging patterns and risks undermining credible poll results,” said Vocal Africa CEO Hussein Khalid.
Vocal Africa Group requests that the National Police Service (NPS) increase security deployment in Kasipul and Mbeere North in order to strengthen electoral integrity, ensure peaceful participation, and restore public trust in the impending by-elections.
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The groups want the NPS to respond quickly to electoral-related incidents, examine all acts of violence impartially and without political involvement, and arrest and convict perpetrators.
The IEBC is encouraged to consider disqualifying candidates who violate election rules, imposing strong sanctions on public personnel who engage in partisan campaigns, and improving coordination with security services.
“The patterns emerging from our observation mission are deeply concerning and suggest growing disregard for electoral norms and a creeping culture of impunity,” said Hussein.
Vocal Africa Group is warning that if left unchecked, the practices threaten the credibility of the by-elections.
BY-ELECTIONS: Vocal Africa Reveals State Resource Exploitation, Violence
