Prominent lawyer Donald Kipkorir has raised alarm over what he describes as open and blatant bribery of voters ahead of the Ol Kalou parliamentary by election, warning that the practice undermines the country's democratic values.
Kipkorir said the conduct directly violates Chapter Six of the Constitution, which governs leadership and integrity among public officials.
He expressed disappointment with the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission and the Ethics and Anti Corruption Commission, accusing both bodies of failing to fulfill their constitutional mandate to safeguard the integrity of the electoral process.
According to Kipkorir, their apparent inaction in the face of clear violations sends a troubling signal about the state of electoral oversight in the country.
His remarks come as the by election, set for July 16, has been marred by mounting allegations of voter bribery, with reports of government officials distributing items such as mattresses, gas cylinders, food and cash to residents in the days leading up to the vote.
The IEBC has confirmed it is investigating the claims, along with reports of violence, gang activity and illegal night campaigns, warning that the election could be postponed or canceled if the situation does not improve.
Several leaders, including Nyandarua Senator Joe Nyutu and Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro, have also criticized the heavy deployment of state resources in the constituency, arguing that development projects that had waited years for attention were suddenly prioritized just days before the vote.
The government has maintained that the projects are not intended to influence voters.
Kipkorir's comments add to the growing chorus of concern over the credibility of the Ol Kalou race, with critics warning that unchecked bribery could set a troubling precedent ahead of the 2027 general election.
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