Voting was briefly disrupted on Thursday, February 26, during the by-elections in Kakamega County after one person was arrested over alleged voter bribery at Imbiakalo Primary School polling station in West Kabras Ward.
Police officers responded following reports that a suspect had been offering money to voters within the polling area. The incident created tension at the station, prompting a temporary halt in voting as officers worked to restore calm.
The suspect was arrested and removed from the station, after which the voting process resumed under tight security.
IEBC Oversight
The by-elections form part of a national exercise overseen by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to fill vacant seats in county assemblies and parliamentary positions left open due to death or resignation.
Before polls opened, the commission had warned against voter bribery, intimidation, and any interference with the electoral process.
Extra police officers were deployed across polling stations to safeguard the integrity of the vote.
Calm Restored
In West Kabras Ward, voters returned to queues once order was restored, and election officials reported no further disruptions at the station.
Across Kakamega County and other affected regions, voter turnout has been described as steady. Polling stations are expected to close later in the evening, followed by counting and tallying of votes.
The arrest has renewed calls for political leaders and their supporters to respect the law and allow citizens to exercise their democratic right freely.
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