Nyali Member of Parliament Mohamed Ali has raised concerns over potential interference in the forthcoming Magarini by-election, alleging that election personnel have been strategically deployed to sway results.
Ali, who supports Deputy County Commissioner candidate Stanley Kenga, issued the warning on social media, urging residents to remain vigilant and ensure the integrity of the vote.
The MP specifically addressed Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir, a known supporter of the ODM candidate Harrison Kombe, claiming that four presiding officers and 30 inspectors had been brought into Magarini to manipulate the electoral outcome.
“We are monitoring all activities closely and will act to prevent any disruption of the election process,” Ali said, emphasizing the importance of free and fair polling.
Both political figures have been active on the campaign trail in Magarini, mobilizing voters for their preferred candidates. Kilifi County, where the constituency is located, has historically experienced competitive races, with coastal politics often reflecting broader national party dynamics and alliances.
By-elections in Kenya, including Magarini, are closely observed as indicators of party strength and influence in the regions.
The contest has attracted attention because it pits DCP-backed Kenga against ODM’s Kombe, highlighting ongoing rivalry between local leaders and high-profile party supporters.
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has previously assured the public that all measures are in place to protect the integrity of elections, including training of presiding officers, deployment of election staff, and the presence of security personnel.
Such precautions are standard practice to prevent disruptions, particularly in constituencies with intense political competition.
As campaigns intensify, residents of Magarini are preparing to vote under heightened scrutiny.
Civil society groups have reiterated calls for voters to exercise their rights freely and reject inducements, ensuring that the by-election reflects the true will of the electorate.
This by-election is not only a local test of political support but also a reflection of party influence along the Kenyan coast, with both ODM and DCP-aligned factions seeking to consolidate their presence ahead of national elections.