The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has responded to allegations of voter bribery in Malava Constituency ahead of the November 27 by-elections.
The concerns emerged after a video, purportedly filmed in Malava, circulated online showing residents receiving money and food items from one of the candidates.
The footage sparked public outrage and political accusations.
DAP–K by-election candidate Seth Panyako accused President William Ruto’s administration of voter bribery, intimidation, and plotting to rig the poll.
Speaking to the press on Tuesday, November 25, Panyako further alleged that a pro-government politician had obtained pre-marked ballot papers to influence the outcome of the mini-election.
However, during an interview on NTV on Monday night, IEBC Chairperson Erastus Ethekon said the commission had not received any formal complaint regarding the alleged bribery.
He noted that the authenticity of the circulating video could not be verified immediately and stressed that investigations can only begin once an official complaint is lodged.
“I have seen those videos circulating, and we cannot verify exactly what they are,” Ethekon said. “There is a procedure for addressing such matters, and we urge concerned candidates to report to the commission through the proper channels.”
Ethekon added that the returning officer on the ground has the mandate to escalate the matter for investigation if necessary.
The IEBC chairperson urged political parties and candidates to adhere strictly to constitutional requirements for free and fair elections, warning that any breach of the electoral code of conduct would attract serious consequences.
He referenced Article 81 of the Constitution, which stipulates that elections must be free from violence, bribery, and intimidation.
“Article 81 says our elections must be free from violence, bribery, and intimidation, and therefore candidates should not engage in acts prohibited by the Constitution,” he emphasized.
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