Prominent lawyer and political commentator PLO Lumumba has provided an evaluation of Kenya’s electoral and political situation, labelling the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) as incapable.
During a Wednesday, December 10, 2025, interview with a local TV station, PLO also referred to the country’s opposition as essentially non-existent.
Lumumba criticized the electoral body for not upholding transparency and accountability during the November 27, 2025 by-elections, pointing to cases of bribery and voter manipulation that took place under its supervision.
“The IEBC is manifestly inept, and its failure to detect bribery is apparent, as seen in the fact that candidates received mattresses under its supervision.” They died under their direct supervision, Lumumba stated.
He also highlighted the ethnic and violent elements of political mobilisation in the country, pointing out that this phenomenon has undermined the base of democracy.
The foundation of political mobilization in Kenya is rooted in ethnicity and clientelism. He described it as a tragic event.
Opposition in power
Lumumba’s views on opposition politics were just as straightforward. He contended that a genuine opposition must comprise responsible, well-organised individuals capable of offering alternative governance systems, a criterion he claims is lacking in Kenya currently.
He observed that opposition as a concept does not actually exist because opposition is supposed to be a well-organized group of responsible individuals who provide alternative governance systems.
By-elections scheduled for November 27
Reports of voter bribery and violence surfaced during the recent by-elections.
The IEBC dismissed allegations of voter bribery, despite viral videos showing some election participants, such as those in the Malava constituency, distributing government relief food, mattresses, and blankets to voters.
Rigathi Gachagua, the former Deputy President, has condemned the violence his Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) candidates and he faced during the November 27 mini elections.
Although violence occurred, he maintains that his party achieved exceptionally good results in the mini polls.
