Former Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi has formally written to the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), raising concerns over what he describes as orchestrated attempts to disrupt the Mbeere North by-election scheduled for November 27.
The letter, addressed to the electoral body, alleges that organized groups are being deployed to intimidate voters and influence the outcome in favour of the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) candidate.
In the correspondence, Muturi cites intelligence indicating that armed individuals from Nairobi and Thika, under the supervision of National Government Administration officers and police in plain clothes, are positioned to enter key polling areas.
The areas reportedly under threat include Kanyuambura, Ishiara, and Siakago towns, considered strongholds of the candidate he supports.
The former CS also highlighted concerns over widespread voter inducement, pointing to mass distribution of cash during political rallies and a planned scheme requiring voters to photograph marked ballots in exchange for money.
He emphasized that such actions would violate the principle of the secret ballot and undermine the credibility of the electoral process.
Muturi’s letter urges the IEBC to implement measures to ensure a free, fair, and verifiable election. Among his requests, he calls for the commission to update the voter register and take preventative action against the alleged disruptions.
“We formally demand that IEBC stop this lawlessness and guarantee a free, fair and credible election,” Muturi stated.
The Mbeere North constituency has historically witnessed competitive electoral contests, and allegations of interference come amid heightened scrutiny over electoral integrity nationwide.
The by-election follows the vacancy of the parliamentary seat and is seen as a test of local political dynamics between UDA and other competing parties.