Violence robs voters the right to choose their leaders freely

Irungu Houghton, Amnesty International Executive Director.

Even before the dust settles on the Matungu, Kiamokama and Kabuchai by-elections, a national date with electoral hell looms in 2022. Despite clear laws, procedures and seasoned politicians, the March 4 by-elections seemed to intentionally act out rather than avoid most of the electoral offences.

Article 81 of the Constitution states all elections must be free from violence, intimidation or bribery. The Constitution and at least five laws including the 2011 Acts on Elections, Political Parties and the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission and the 2016 Acts on the Election Laws and the Elections Offences directly govern the electoral process.