Tensions ran high in Kakamega County on Friday, November 21, after a contingent of police officers attempted to block an opposition rally in Malava Constituency.
It all ensued when a group of opposition politicians staged a rally in the constituency as they campaigned for their candidate, Seth Panyako, in Malava Town.
Just minutes into the campaigns, several police officers arrived and began dispersing the crowd using tear gas canisters, forcing people to scamper for safety.
However, the police intervention was immediately thwarted by a group of residents who confronted the officers and chased them away, paving the way for the opposition rally.
The incident came just five days before the much-anticipated by-elections in the area, even as the pro-government politicians continue to push for the election of David Ndakwa.
Commenting on the matter, the opposition politicians condemned the act, accusing the government of allegedly attempting to sabotage the planned elections in Malava.
Wiper party leader who addressed the rally, claimed that there was a well-coordinated effort by a group of pro-government politicians to interfere with the credibility of the Malava by-elections.
The opposition leaders insisted that organising and holding peaceful campaigns was not against the law, adding that there were reports about the government's alleged plan to hire goons during the polls.
"I have heard that they are waiting to attack us. I want to say here that I am used to being tear-gassed and I am still alive, you can continue to throw tear gas, but we will do our campaigns," Kalonzo said.
Yesterday's incident in Malava has since raised concerns over the upcoming by-elections scheduled to take place on November 27, across several parts of the country.
Just a day ago, the opposition petitioned the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to intervene over alleged plans to rig the Mbeere North by-elections.
In a statement on Friday, November 21, former Public Service Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi claimed that there was a well-orchestrated scheme to rig the upcoming polls in Mbeere in favour of a pro-government candidate.
He therefore urged IEBC to put in place measures to immediately address the planned hiring of the goons to interfere with the elections.
"I bring to your attention the above plans to deny voters a free, fair, credible and verifiable election. I call upon your commission to put in place measures to redress their evil and illegal machinations. and update us on the measures taken," Muturi stated.
