Low Voter Turnout Marks Evurore Ward By-Election Amid Allegations of Bribery

Voter apathy dominated the Evurore Ward by-election on Thursday, February 26, 2026, as many residents stayed away from polling stations across the constituency. 

Several locations recorded very few voters, signaling a lack of enthusiasm among the electorate.

At Kanyuambora Primary School, the station with the highest number of registered voters, the low turnout was particularly noticeable. 

Normally busy and lively, the area was unusuallyquiet, with only a handful of residents casting their ballots throughout the morning.

Long stretches of empty lines replaced the usual crowd of voters eager to participate in the democratic exercise.

Despite the low numbers, election officials assured the public that the voting process was proceeding smoothly.

All materials had been delivered on time, and security personnel were stationed across the ward to maintain order.

The constituency returning officer, James Mwangi, noted that some polling stations where voting started 30 minutes late would be compensated to ensure fairness.

He confirmed that voting was scheduled to close at 5 p.m., giving residents ample time to cast their votes.

The low turnout sparked concerns about the state of voter engagement in the ward.

Many observers said the lack of participation could affect the credibility of the election and weaken representation for residents.

Some attributed the low numbers to general disinterest, while others pointed to potential manipulation and influence by powerful actors.

Democratic Party leader Justin Muturi, who cast his vote at Kanyuambora Primary School, claimed that voter bribery could be behind the low turnout.

Speaking shortly after voting, Muturi alleged that some government agents had been deployed in the area to bribe voters, which he argued discouraged genuine participation.

“There is bribery by the government. Some people have been planted in various areas to bribe voters,” Muturi said, expressing his concerns about the integrity of the electoral process.

He warned that such actions could undermine public trust and the democratic spirit of the election.

Residents interviewed at the polling stations had mixed reactions. Some said they chose not to vote because they felt their voices would not make a difference, while others indicated they had not received enough information about the candidates and parties involved.

A few voters, however, expressed optimism, saying that participating in the election, even with low turnout, remained a civic duty.

Election officials continued to monitor the situation closely, ensuring that all procedures were followed.

They emphasized that every registered voter still had the opportunity to cast their vote before the 5 p.m. deadline.

Security officers maintained a visible presence to prevent any disruptions and guarantee a peaceful exercise.