United opposition alleges government plot to rig by-elections, cites pre-marked ballots and goons

The united opposition, led by Rigathi Gachagua, Kalonzo Musyoka, and Eugene Wamalwa, has accused the government of plotting to rig Thursday’s by-elections. They claim that 30,000 pre-marked ballot papers have already been prepared for use in Mbeere, Magarini, and Malava, and allege a broader plan to incite violence using hired goons. This comes as the government withdrew security detail for Kakamega senator Bonny Khalwale and Trans-Nzoia Governor George Natembeya, a move condemned by leaders led by ODM deputy party leader Simba Arati.