Trans-Nzoia Governor George Natembeya and Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale have sharply criticized the conduct of the November 27 Malava Constituency by-elections, accusing state agencies of being used to sway the outcome rather than protect the integrity of the electoral process.
Speaking during a joint press briefing on November 28, 2025, Governor Natembeya said opposition forces had “given the government a run for its money,” insisting that Western Kenya would not be subjected to political intimidation in future elections.
“Come 2027, Western will not be available for these kinds of games,” Natembeya said, assuring voters that their elected leaders respected and valued them.
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The governor alleged that the government deployed security agencies and state operatives in a manner meant to influence voter behaviour.
He claimed that the presence of security personnel created an environment of intimidation rather than neutrality.
Natembeya went further, stating that the most blatant malpractice was widespread voter bribery carried out “openly and with impunity.”
“Money flowed freely in an attempt to substitute people’s will with financial coercion,” he said, arguing that such tactics reflected a government fearful of genuine democratic expression.
He questioned whether the country could expect credible national elections in 2027 if a single constituency by-election required such intense security deployment and financial interference.
Natembeya emphasized that he would continue to defend democratic freedoms using all lawful means available.
“Democracy belongs to the people, and no pressure will change that,” he declared as he closed his remarks.
Senator Khalwale, who stood alongside the governor, echoed the concerns. He noted that the Malava by-election was riddled with “unnecessary drama” and warned that Kenya risked mirroring Tanzania’s controversial electoral environment if such practices were not addressed.
The by-election — which was hotly contested — has since sparked political debate across the Western region, with leaders divided over the legitimacy of the vote and the role of state institutions in the polls.