The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has raised concerns over alleged electoral malpractices ahead of the Ol Kalou Parliamentary By-Election, warning that reports of voter inducement, misuse of public resources, intimidation and inflammatory political rhetoric could undermine the credibility of the electoral process.
In a statement issued on Monday July 13, the legal body said it had been closely monitoring developments surrounding the by-election and expressed concern over reports suggesting possible violations of electoral laws.
The LSK said Kenya’s democracy is anchored on free, fair, transparent and accountable elections, adding that every electoral contest must be conducted in strict compliance with the Constitution, the Elections Act, the Election Offences Act and other relevant laws.
“The Society is deeply concerned by numerous reports and public information suggesting widespread electoral malpractice, misuse of public resources, voter inducement, political intimidation, inflammatory rhetoric, and other conduct capable of undermining the integrity and credibility of the electoral process,” the LSK statement read in part.
LSK further highlighted several areas of concern, including allegations of distributing cash, goods and other benefits to voters during the campaign period, the use of government programmes and public resources for political purposes, and the involvement of public officers in partisan activities.
It also raised concerns over reports of violence, intimidation and the use of organised groups to influence voter behaviour or restrict political participation.
The lawyers’ body warned that electoral offences should not be treated as ordinary political disputes, but as criminal acts capable of damaging constitutional governance and public trust.
“The Law Society of Kenya reiterates that electoral offences are not mere political infractions; they are criminal acts that strike at the heart of constitutional governance and democratic legitimacy.”
The society called on the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to enforce electoral laws independently and without political influence, urging the commission to ensure that all candidates, parties and public officials are held to account.
LSK further urged investigative and enforcement agencies, including the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC), Public Service Commission (PSC) and the National Police Service, to investigate any violations and take appropriate action against those found culpable.
