KILIFI, Kenya—November 24, 2025—Kilifi Governor Gideon Mung’aro has dismissed allegations of a plot to rig Thursday’s Magarini by-election, amid rising political temperatures in the coastal constituency ahead of the nationwide mini-polls.
Speaking to journalists in Malindi on Tuesday, Mung’aro said claims that the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) is colluding with ODM to manipulate results are baseless and politically motivated. He maintained that ODM has conducted extensive campaigns in Magarini and expressed confidence that the party’s candidate, Harry Kombe, will secure victory.
“We have campaigned sufficiently and engaged voters across Magarini. I am confident our candidate will win fairly,” Mung’aro said, urging political actors to refrain from spreading unverified allegations that could inflame tensions.
The governor also called for peace before, during, and after the vote, noting that Magarini has remained largely calm throughout the campaign period and should maintain that stability as the constituency heads to the polls.
Mung’aro’s remarks come after DCP leader Rigathi Gachagua alleged that ODM was planning to rig the election, prompting sharp reactions from Coast leaders and sparking fresh debate over political interference in local contests.
The IEBC has not responded directly to the accusations but has assured the public that all by-elections scheduled for Thursday across the country will be conducted transparently. The commission says all materials and personnel have been deployed and that polling stations will open at 6 a.m.
The Magarini by-election is among several being held nationally, viewed as a key test of political strength and shifting alliances as parties position themselves ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Security agencies in Kilifi say they have heightened surveillance and increased deployment to avert potential disruptions, following concerns raised by residents and competing camps.
As the clock ticks toward polling day, political observers are watching Magarini closely, describing it as a high-stakes contest that could signal broader political realignments at the Coast.
