The ongoing by-election in Kariobangi North Ward has recorded a low voter turnout. The exercise, which began at 6.00am has been peaceful with heavy police presence observed in the five centres across the ward.
However, allegations of bribery, goons and intimidation have overshadowed the process.
ODM candidate Michael Ouma Majua said that since today is Thursday, many voters opted to go to work and are likely to cast their ballots later in the evening.
Speaking after voting at Kariobangi North Primary School, he urged residents to show up and choose their future.
“So far, the exercise is okay, but we have had minor cases of voter bribery here and there. We are waiting to see how things unfold by the end of the day. We are confident,” Mr Ouma said.
Jane Murungi Wangui, the ODM campaign leader in Kariobangi North, expressed confidence in the party’s win.
“If you want to decide your future, come out and vote now. This is the time to do it. Otherwise, you will not have someone to represent you until 2027,” Ms Wangui stated.
Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) candidate David Warui Wanyoike also claimed that the low turnout is a result of fear among voters following rumours that goons had been deployed by a section of Nairobi leaders.
He further accused the government of handing out money to voters and urged the police to arrest individuals allegedly moving around polling stations to bribe the electorate.
Sixteen candidates are vying for the seat, which fell vacant following the death of MCA Joel Munuve in April this year.
In an interview with Nation, Kariobangi North Returning Officer Abdi Roba confirmed that all five polling centres opened on time and that the situation has remained calm.
A total of 24,500 voters are registered in the ward, with five centres hosting 34 polling stations, each with a capacity of 700 voters.
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