Gachagua Accuses IEBC Vice Chair of Election Malpractice in Magarini By-Elections

DCP leader Rigathi Gachagua has accused IEBC Vice Chair Fahima Araphat of meddling in Magarini by-elections. In a letter to IEBC Chair Erastus Ethekon, he claimed she sidelined the assigned commissioner and favored a specific candidate.

Gachagua said the alleged malpractice began on November 21. Araphat reportedly bullied and coerced election officials. She demanded a full list of presiding officers and their contacts. Gachagua added that she met Kilifi Governor Gideon Mung’aro in Malindi. He claimed bribery talks took place to influence the election.

“This was in exchange for the list and instructions to help Governor Mung’aro rig the election,” Gachagua said. He further alleged that a bribe was given on November 22, and the list of officers handed over.

Gachagua described the actions as shocking. He said it is unbelievable that a senior IEBC official could interfere in a by-election. He demanded the immediate replacement of IEBC officials in Magarini. He also urged the commission to protect electoral officers from harassment.

He called for Araphat to be restrained from interfering in this and future elections. “We cannot allow rogue actions at the highest levels to compromise our democracy,” Gachagua added.

The allegations raise concerns over transparency. If confirmed, they could trigger investigations into IEBC practices. Political parties and election observers are watching closely.

The situation underscores the challenge of protecting Kenya’s elections. Officials must uphold fairness and transparency. Magarini voters and the public await decisive action to maintain trust in the electoral process.