Former nominated senator Millicent Omanga has criticised security agencies following reports of violence in areas that held by-elections on Thursday.
Her remarks came amid growing concern from candidates and voters over incidents in which groups of youths allegedly disrupted polling activities.
The clashes were reported in several constituencies where voting was underway.
In a statement posted on X, Omanga questioned how attackers were able to target voters, aspirants, and political agents without an immediate police response.
She described the situation as a “security collapse” and urged authorities to restore order.
Her comments reflected broader anxiety about conduct and safety in recent by-election cycles, particularly in politically competitive regions.
By-elections in Kenya often attract heightened tension due to tight margins and local political rivalries. Incidents of violence, while not new, place pressure on security agencies to guarantee safe participation for voters and fair conditions for candidates.
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) and police typically deploy additional officers during such polls, but Thursday’s events appeared to expose gaps in enforcement.
Witnesses in some polling centres reported confrontations involving rival groups, forcing temporary disruptions in voting. Several candidates also alleged intimidation of their supporters and called for immediate investigations.
Police had not issued a comprehensive statement by Thursday evening, though officers in some areas confirmed isolated disturbances and promised to address any breaches of electoral law.
Omanga’s statement pointed to public expectations that security officers should anticipate and contain potential threats during elections.
“How can goons run roughshod attacking Kenyans, aspirants, and leaders while the police look helpless? This is unprecedented,” she wrote.