Aasai

Former Law Society of Kenya (LSK) President Nelson Havi has called for immediate and firm action against politicians spreading unverified claims of election rigging, warning that such reckless utterances could stir national unrest and erode public trust in democratic institutions ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Speaking on Monday, Havi urged the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) to summon and hold accountable those behind what he termed as “dangerous political rhetoric.” He stressed that such remarks are not just political noise but a direct threat to Kenya’s electoral integrity and national stability.

“These two Members of Parliament who have been making such wild statements are doing it for political attention and to stir public emotions,” said Havi. “The relevant agencies must act swiftly. This cannot be brushed off as a minor issue—this is how chaos begins.”

Havi also took a subtle but pointed swipe at a senior political figure, whom he referred to only as “the king,” saying that his continued silence on the matter was only fueling public suspicion. Though he did not name the individual, political analysts believe he was referring to a powerful opposition or government figure whose perceived influence has emboldened the MPs involved. “The king must disown those remarks publicly and clarify that they do not represent his views,” he added. “Silence in such matters is dangerous.”

The former LSK president went on to highlight that Kenya’s presidential elections have consistently been marred by legal challenges and allegations of vote rigging. According to him, repeating such unfounded claims without evidence undermines the credibility of electoral institutions and risks pushing the country into yet another cycle of post-election instability. “This pattern is familiar—and dangerous. We’ve seen this movie before, and it never ends well for the country,” he said.

Havi also backed Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, who recently raised similar concerns over inflammatory political statements. He emphasized that the IEBC, DCI, and ODPP are not just watchdogs but constitutional bodies with the responsibility to uphold electoral laws and safeguard public order. “They must move beyond statements. There must be arrests, interrogations, and prosecutions if need be,” he said.

In a sharp critique of top government figures, Havi singled out the Prime Cabinet Secretary and the Speaker of the National Assembly, accusing them of crossing the line by commenting on the sensitive issue of electoral fraud. He argued that such high-level figures must remain neutral, especially as they are expected to uphold the independence of the institutions they serve. “The Speaker, in particular, has already faced a court ruling questioning his impartiality,” said Havi. “He should refrain from issuing political commentary and instead support due process.”

Havi’s remarks come amid rising political temperatures, with various leaders already aligning themselves for the 2027 contest. However, analysts warn that continued propagation of election rigging claims—especially this early—could lead to public disillusionment, apathy, or even unrest if not addressed decisively.

“The stability of this country depends on strong institutions and responsible leadership,” Havi concluded. “We cannot afford to repeat the mistakes of the past. Action must be taken now, not when it’s too late.”