Opposition Accuses Government of Coordinated Election Interference Ahead of By-Elections
United Opposition leaders addressing the press at the SKM Command Centre ahead of the by-elections, urging transparency and fairness in the electoral process in Nairobi on Wednesday,26th November,2025
The United Opposition has levelled accusations against the government, alleging the existence of a coordinated national scheme aimed at intimidating voters, bribing citizens and manipulating ballot materials ahead of tomorrow’s by-elections.
In a statement, the group thanked supporters across the country for participating in what it termed peaceful campaigns, noting that Kenyans have demonstrated a clear desire for political change and intend to express their views through the ballot.
The Opposition claimed that the state has deployed large numbers of police officer both uniformed and plainclothes in Narrow Town, Malawa, Chicago and Merino to create an atmosphere of fear. It cited activities of the “Subaru unit,” alleging that its presence in neighbourhoods is intended to unsettle voters rather than assure public safety. The group termed the alleged conduct inconsistent with democratic standards.
It further accused senior state officials, including MPs, MCAs, chiefs, principal secretaries, cabinet secretaries and members of the Executive, of distributing relief supplies and using government vehicles for campaign activities. The Opposition said such actions amount to a blatant misuse of public resources and a violation of public trust.
A major concern raised was the alleged improper serialisation of 820,000 ballot papers, which the group said creates opportunities for ballot-stuffing. It claimed that 30,000 pre-marked ballots have already been transported to specific areas, with plans to insert them during orchestrated disruptions at polling stations. The Opposition also questioned the decision to print ballot papers in Greece, describing it as a matter that raises fresh doubts about electoral integrity. It criticised the IEBC’s response as inadequate.
According to the statement, individuals aligned with the regime have continued campaigning past the legally mandated deadline, allegedly escorted by police and protected by hired groups armed with pangas and rungus. The Opposition warned of plans in Malawa and other areas to instigate violence to enable compromised officials to introduce fraudulent ballots during periods of confusion.
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission was faulted for failing to address concerns raised by political actors, civil society and the media. The group said the by-elections represent the commission’s first major test and urged it to act decisively to safeguard public confidence.
The Opposition encouraged supporters to turn out in large numbers, remain peaceful and document any irregularities. It instructed its agents to confirm that ballot boxes are empty before voting begins, ensure that only uniformed officers carry firearms inside polling stations and remain at their stations until results are fully transmitted.
Despite the concerns cited, the Opposition expressed confidence in Kenyans’ resilience, stating that the will of the people “cannot be bought or broken.” It called on citizens to uphold democratic values and maintain vigilance, adding that while truth may at times be delayed, it ultimately prevails.
