United Opposition Urges Electoral Transparency Ahead of By-Elections
Wiper Party Leader Kalonzo Musyoka addressing the media at the SKM Command Centre in Nairobi on Thursday, November 20, 2025, urging transparency and accountability ahead of the November by-elections.
The United Opposition on Thursday held a media conference in Nairobi, calling on the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to uphold transparency and credibility ahead of the November 27 by-elections and the 2027 General Election.
The briefing brought together opposition leaders, youth representatives, and civil society actors to highlight gaps in voter registration, misuse of state resources, and threats to democratic institutions. It was convened in response to public concern over the electoral process and possible manipulation ahead of the by-elections.
Speaking during the media conference, Wiper Party Leader Kalonzo Musyoka said the country must urgently prioritise electoral integrity.
“Our youth have made it clear that accountability, transparency, and dignity are the minimum standards for leaders.They have peacefully called for change and justice,” he said.
Musyoka described the Gen Z-led civic movement as a moral uprising demanding accountability and rejecting corruption.
“Leadership is about integrity and courage.
Our youth remind us that vigilance and moral clarity can reclaim the soul of a nation,” he added.
The opposition criticised the IEBC’s iris-scanning rollout, saying it created a two-tier voter register and discouraged some citizens. He also noted that limiting registration to constituency offices during working hours excluded workers, students, and youth.
“The IEBC must conduct voter registration daily and at ward level, Citizens must know where kits are deployed and how data is protected.This ensures fairness and public trust,” Musyoka said.
He further condemned senior officials for misusing public resources during campaigns.
“Such conduct violates accountability and integrity.Leaders must be held to high standards
to preserve public trust,” he said.
The coalition also alleged that voters were being instructed to photograph ballots in exchange for money.
“If this is not voter bribery and intimidation, then what is? Directing citizens to show ballots for cash must be stopped. It attacks the secrecy of our democracy,” Musyoka said.
The media briefing welcomed the IEBC Electoral Code of Conduct Enforcement Committee’s decision to fine Kasipul by-election candidates Aroko and Were Sh1 million each for incitement-related violence.
“Calling out perpetrators of violence is necessary.
Justice must be fair and consistent
to protect electoral credibility,” he said.
Musyoka emphasised vigilance throughout the electoral cycle, warning that election manipulation can occur quietly during registration.
“Our democracy depends on protecting every step of the process. Citizens must stay alert and participate to ensure every vote counts,” he said.
The United Opposition urged all Kenyans to remain vigilant and uphold the Constitution, saying the youth have shown that moral clarity and civic responsibility can strengthen democracy and protect the integrity of future elections.
