Voters in Malava, Kakamega County, were met with fear and chaos as a four-wheel-drive vehicle was set ablaze early Thursday morning following clashes between rival political supporters — underscoring the heightened tensions surrounding the ongoing by-election in the area.
The incident occurred in the Manyonje area when supporters from competing camps reportedly confronted each other near polling sites. Eyewitnesses said tempers flared shortly after dawn, prompting one group to torch a Toyota Prado that had been part of a candidate’s convoy. The blaze sparked panic among residents, some of whom were heading to cast their ballots.
Prior to the arson, altercations had already erupted at a nearby hotel where supporters of one of the candidates, associated with the DAP-K party, were holding a meeting. During that confrontation, at least two people were reportedly injured — including the personal driver of the political hopeful. Locals say the hotel incident seemed targeted and may have been intended to intimidate the candidate’s camp. Witnesses said supporters attacked the driver, and in response, members of the rival camp intervened, leading to a broader skirmish.
The torching of the car triggered alarm in the neighbourhood. Thick smoke filled the air, and panic spread among residents — especially those heading to polling stations. Some turned back, fearing for their safety; others hurried to seek shelter. The chaos temporarily disrupted voting in parts of the constituency.
Security agencies were mobilised immediately. Officers from the local police station and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) arrived at the scene, cordoned off the area, and launched investigations. As of the latest reports, no arrests had been confirmed, and investigators were working to identify those responsible and determine the motive behind the attack.
Local officials and election observers condemned the violence, characterising it as a flagrant attempt to intimidate voters in what is regarded as a stronghold for one of the candidates. They warned that such acts could undermine the credibility and safety of the electoral process. Some community leaders urged security agencies to act swiftly to prevent the unrest from spreading to other polling centres.
Analysts say the incident is symptomatic of broader tensions in Malava, where political stakes are high and support is sharply divided. In recent days, there have been reports of harassment, stoning of vehicles, and confrontations — all raising fears that the by-election could descend into violence. Observers note that this escalation risks suppressing voter turnout, especially among women, the elderly, and first-time voters fearful of visiting polling stations.
Nevertheless, as the morning advanced, calm began to return. Some polling centres reopened as security presence was increased, and a few voters ventured out again, determined to fulfil their civic duty. Election monitors and party agents remained on alert, watching for any further signs of trouble.
The torching of the vehicle and preceding violence have drawn national attention, with civil society groups calling for a thorough investigation and urging all political actors to refrain from using intimidation tactics. The incident underscores the fragility of peace during competitive elections and highlights the vital role of security forces in protecting democratic processes.
As Malava proceeds with the by-election, many eyes will be on the security agencies to see whether they can guarantee safe, free, and fair voting — not only for today, but as Kenya edges closer to the next general elections.
Image by The Star
