Tension is rising in Malava Constituency as the community prepares for the November 27 by-election, following fresh claims of voter bribery that surfaced in a viral online video.
The short clip, which began circulating on Tuesday morning, showed several residents receiving what appeared to be money and food items from individuals said to be working for one of the candidates.
The incident quickly triggered debate across social media and political circles.
The story first gained attention after locals shared concerns about unusual night activities around polling centers.
Soon after, opposition supporters picked up the matter, turning it into a major campaign topic.
One of the most vocal figures has been DAP-K candidate Seth Panyako, who accused government-allied politicians of attempting to influence the vote through intimidation and bribery.
According to Panyako, the viral video is only part of a wider scheme aimed at manipulating the outcome of the mini-poll.
He claimed that one pro-government politician had allegedly accessed pre-marked ballot papers and was planning to use them during the election.
Speaking firmly during a press briefing on Tuesday, November 25, he insisted that the people of Malava deserved a free and fair contest.
Panyako, who has been campaigning alongside other opposition leaders, described the situation as a direct attack on democracy.
He urged the IEBC to step in swiftly and probe the matter, saying that any delay would raise more suspicion among voters.
His remarks drew loud support from residents who attended the briefing and demanded strict oversight at all polling stations.
As the accusations gained momentum, journalists reached out to the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission for clarification.
Later that night, IEBC Chairperson Erastus Ethekon addressed the country during an interview on NTV.
He confirmed that the commission was aware of the circulating video but clarified that no official complaint had been lodged.
Ethekon emphasized that the commission follows a clear legal process in handling electoral offences.
Without a formal report, the IEBC cannot begin investigations or authenticate the material being shared online.
He encouraged anyone with evidence to file a complaint with the returning officer on the ground or directly with the commission’s offices.
“I have seen those videos, but we cannot verify what is happening in them without proper documentation,” Ethekon explained.
“We have procedures that must be followed, and we urge candidates and citizens to use the right channels. Only then can we open investigations to determine the truth.”
He went on to remind all political actors of their responsibility to protect the integrity of the electoral process.
Citing Article 81 of the Constitution, Ethekon stressed that Kenyan elections must remain free from violence, bribery, and intimidation.
The IEBC boss also warned that any candidate found violating the electoral code of conduct would face serious consequences.
He urged parties to stop sharing unverified claims that could trigger panic or disrupt peace in the constituency.
As Malava heads into the final campaign day, residents remain cautiously hopeful that the by-election will proceed peacefully.
Local elders, religious leaders, and community groups have also joined calls for calm, urging voters to choose their leaders without fear or coercion.
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