Opposition Sounds Alarm Over “Grand Rigging Plan” Ahead of Thursday’s Vote
By Peace Muthoka.
November 26, 2025 – The United Opposition has accused the government of plotting a coordinated scheme to rig Thursday’s by-elections, warning that the integrity of the vote now hangs in the balance.
In a strongly worded statement released today, the coalition thanked its supporters for turning out in big numbers during the campaigns and said the mood across the country shows Kenyans are eager for change. They said the growing dissatisfaction with the current regime has triggered panic within government ranks.
The coalition said the message from voters is clear, stretching from the mountain to the lake and from the coast to Kisii under the rallying call #WANTAM. They argued that this rising unity has pushed the regime into what they described as desperate attempts to frustrate the people’s will.
The coalition listed a series of incidents it believes form part of a wider plan to interfere with the by-elections. First, it accused the government of deploying large numbers of police officers, including plainclothes units, to intimidate voters. They pointed to Narok Town, Malava, and Mbeere North, where unmarked Subaru Foresters allegedly followed supporters and heightened fear. The coalition said these tactics aim to suppress turnout.
The second concern was what the coalition described as open bribery by senior state officials. They said MPs, MCAs, Chiefs, PSs, CSs, and even the President have been using government vehicles, relief food, mattresses, blankets, and embassy appointment letters to influence voters. They called this a clear abuse of public trust.
The third accusation struck at ballot integrity. The coalition said the serialization of 820,000 ballot papers was not done correctly and not properly inspected, creating room for ballot stuffing. They further claimed that 30,000 pre-marked ballots had already been ferried to Magarini, Malava, and Mbeere North by compromised presiding officers.
The coalition also accused government allies of campaigning beyond the official deadline, escorted by police and groups of hired goons. They said these extended campaigns were designed to tilt the field and confuse voters on the eve of the election.
Violence, they warned, is also part of the plan. They cited reports from Malava where hired groups, allegedly linked to Lugari MP Nabii Nabwera, are said to be preparing attacks using pangas and rungus. The coalition said these groups would operate under police protection and create chaos for IEBC officers to stuff ballots. They compared this pattern to what they described as police-enabled goon activity during the Gen Z protests.
Another concern was the alleged plan to misuse mobile phones inside polling stations to compromise ballot secrecy. The coalition said IEBC’s response to this matter was weak and accused the Commission of failing to show leadership at a critical moment. They said the Commission’s silence has deepened doubts about its independence.
The coalition urged IEBC to act immediately and reassure Kenyans that the vote will be free and fair. They said Thursday’s by-elections are the first real test for the new Commission and warned that failure to confront the challenges will destroy the trust Kenyans still hold.
They also called on supporters to turn out in large numbers, remain peaceful, and report every irregularity. Agents were reminded to confirm that ballot boxes are empty before voting begins and to stay at their stations until counting ends. They were urged to report bribery, intimidation, and unauthorized photography in booths.
The coalition urged the media, election observers, and civil society to maintain close watch at all polling stations and expose any wrongdoing. They said the will of the people cannot be bought, silenced, or intimidated.
Separately, Wiper Party Leader Kalonzo Musyoka claimed ballot papers had been printed in favour of government-backed candidates. Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua added that 15,000 pre-marked ballots had been sent to Mbeere North and 10,000 more to Malava.
The Opposition concluded with a call for unity and courage. They urged Kenyans to stay firm, stay peaceful, and protect their vote, saying truth can be delayed but never denied.
With hours to the polls, the by-elections now stand overshadowed by rising tension, firm accusations, and a country watching closely.
