Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has accused IEBC Vice Chair Fahima Araphat Abdalla of attempting to influence the Magarini constituency by-elections, raising fears of compromised electoral integrity.
Speaking during a media briefing, Gachagua alleged that Abdalla was providing lists of preferred presiding officers to senior county officials, while intimidating returning officers and other election supervisors to sway the vote.
“We were starting to have hope in the IEBC, but reports indicate that the vice chairperson is interfering in Magarini. She met with senior county officials in a hotel and handed out presiding officer lists intended to compromise the elections,” Gachagua said.
He said he intends to write to IEBC Chairman Erastus Ethekon to demand urgent action, warning that failure to act would damage the commission’s credibility. Gachagua also suggested that Abdalla should resign to ensure transparency ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The allegations follow earlier claims by Gachagua that some political leaders are bribing youths in Mbeere North with up to Ksh5,000 to influence voter turnout and divert votes from opposition candidates.
“The Gen-Z population is key to transformation in our country. Offering them money to vote against their convictions undermines democratic accountability. We hope young voters resist these attempts,” Gachagua said.
The November 27 by-elections, covering Magarini and Mbeere North among other seats, are now under scrutiny as these claims add pressure on the IEBC to ensure a free, fair, and transparent electoral process.
