Former Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka has publicly accused the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) of conspiring to rig the forthcoming Magarini by-election, scheduled for 27th November.
Through his X post on Tuesday, 25 November, Kalonzo warned thousands of coastal voters to be vigilant and defend their choice from rigging.
“Even with the brazen attempts to rig this by-election, one thing remains clear: Magarini has spoken with clarity and with conviction, and we will protect the will of the people. Let us remain vigilant, peaceful, and united as we safeguard that voice and vote” Kalonzo warned
Kalonzo’s rigging claims reinforce his endorsement of Stanley Karisa Kenga days before the Magarini parliamentary by-election, on 27th November: after a court annulled the prior results due to irregularities on July 29, 2024.
Electoral Test
According to Kalonzo, this by-election will be a first major electoral test against the ruling administration, where Ruto’s narrow 2022 win will be put to question. His rigging allegations come a day after former deputy president Rigathi Gachagua accused IEBC leadership of interference, on 24th November.
According to political pundits, Kalonzo leverages his rigging allegations to frame the vote as part of the WANTAM movement, seeking to push against Ruto’s perceived government overreach.
“Magarini is not just another by-election; it is a statement to the whole country. The people’s voice will not be stolen again. The people of Magarini know the direction they want their future to take, and their confidence in Stanley Karisa Kenga is unshakeable” Kalonzo asserted.
