Sarafina Musyoki, 27th November 2025

The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has urged calm and strict respect for the law as the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) carries out by-elections across the country.

In a statement released on Wednesday, the Commission raised concerns about several incidents reported during the campaigns for Senate, National Assembly and County Assembly seats.

According to KNCHR, parts of the country experienced disruptions, including violent clashes in Kasipul Constituency that resulted in two deaths, interruptions of campaign events, and claims of police using excessive force.

The Commission also questioned the deployment of officers in plain clothes in Mbeere North, noting that such practice violates a previous High Court directive.

KNCHR stressed that these incidents touch on essential constitutional guarantees such as the right to life, safety, peaceful assembly and participation in political affairs.

Reaffirming its role in safeguarding human rights throughout the electoral period, the Commission called for swift and transparent investigations into all reported cases and insisted that any individuals found responsible should face the law.

The statement also outlined expectations for various institutions, beginning with the IEBC.

KNCHR urged the electoral agency to ensure that the by-elections are handled “fairly, openly and without favour,” and that all voters and candidates are provided with sufficient security.

Political actors were reminded to commit to peace, avoid hate speech, violence, and voter bribery, and uphold the rights of all participants.

Security organs were advised to maintain neutrality and follow human rights standards while on duty, using force only when absolutely necessary.

The Commission further appealed to the media to report accurately and responsibly, stressing that the press plays a vital role in promoting peace and discouraging inflammatory narratives.

Citizens were encouraged to remain calm, exercise their democratic rights and report any electoral offences or violations.

KNCHR emphasised that every Kenyan must be allowed to vote or seek office without threats, inducements or intimidation.