Faith Odhiambo issues tough demands following by-election chaos
By Nancy Marende, November 28, 2025The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has condemned the acts of violence witnessed during the by-elections held on November 27, 2025, across multiple counties and wards, warning that such incidents threaten the integrity of Kenya’s electoral system.
In a statement by the LSK President, Faith Odhiambo, on Friday, November 28, 2025, the LSK noted that elections were overdue and necessary to uphold voters’ democratic rights and that the campaigns were marred by violence and heightened political tension.
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The LSK highlighted that reports of clashes between rival political groups posed a serious threat to voters and candidates and undermined the sanctity of the electoral process, violating Article 81(e)(ii) of the Constitution, which requires elections to be free from violence, intimidation, or corruption.
“We strongly condemn the heinous acts of violence that characterised these by-elections, particularly in Malava, Kasipul, Ekerenyo, and Kabuchai/Chwele. Elections should never escalate into chaos and disarray,” the LSK said.
The LSK also criticised the apparent lack of preparedness by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) and security agencies, noting that preventive measures should have been in place to safeguard the elections.
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Immediate probe
With the 2027 General Election approaching, the LSK warned that ignoring these events could risk a return to political chaos, urging all election stakeholders to engage in comprehensive preparations, including reviewing boundaries, voter registers, and institutional capacity to manage large-scale elections.
The LSK further called for immediate investigations and prosecutions of all perpetrators under Section 11 of the Election Offences Act and urged the public to exercise restraint in expressing political views.
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“Kenya cannot afford lapses that enable bloodshed and turmoil. Every citizen has a collective responsibility to safeguard peace and protect the nation from being undermined for political expediency,” the society stated.
Furthermore, the Law Society of Kenya reiterated the importance of institutional readiness, enforcement of election laws, and public vigilance to ensure free, fair, and peaceful elections in the future.
