KAKAMEGA, Kenya, Nov 27 – Fresh tensions have erupted in the Malava Constituency after a Seth Panyako campaign car was torched in the Manyonje area on Thursday morning.
Police said a Toyota Prado belonging to the Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K) candidate Seth Panyako was set on fire by a group of goons as voting began. Although no arrest has been made, several residents claimed the attack was meant to intimidate voters in what is considered one of Panyako’s strongholds. Authorities confirmed that investigations are underway.
Fresh chaos as injuries reported in early morning confrontation
Tension remained high across the constituency as the by-election kicked off. Earlier in the morning, two people were injured during a clash at a local hotel, where Panyako was meeting his campaign team.
Among the injured was his personal driver.
Panyako said the confrontation targeted him, but his supporters managed to seize one suspect. The man was beaten before being handed over to authorities. Police promised tighter security as citizens continued casting their ballots.
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Violence spreads to Kabuchai as agents report harassment
In Kabuchai, Bungoma County, several polling agents reported harassment and beatings as they made their way to various polling stations. They suffered injuries in the chaos, although police insisted that most polling centres opened without disruption.
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has set up 134 polling stations nationwide for today’s by-elections. The vacancies follow the deaths of elected leaders and court decisions that nullified earlier results.
High-stakes seats up for grabs as political parties test their strength
This round of by-elections is viewed as a crucial test of party influence ahead of the 2027 General Election. High-interest constituencies include:
- Mbeere North (Embu)
- Ugunja (Siaya)
- Malava (Kakamega)
- Magarini (Kilifi)
- Kasipul (Homa Bay)
In Baringo County, voters are also electing a new senator.
Political analysts argue that these contests will help shape early alliances, especially in competitive regions.
Ward by-elections held simultaneously across the country
County assembly seats are also being decided in several wards nationwide. These include:
- Chewani (Tana River)
- Narok Town (Narok)
- Tembelio (Uasin Gishu)
- Lake Zone and Nanaam (Turkana)
- Kisia East, Kabuchai/Chwele, Purko
- Ang’ata Nanyokie
- Chemundu/Kapng’etuny
- Metkei (Elgeyo Marakwet)
Security has been reinforced in most affected counties to prevent further violence, especially in areas where political tensions have been rising.
