The United Democratic Alliance has criticized former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua for accusing the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission vice chairperson of malpractice in upcoming by-elections. UDA's secretary general described the claims as desperate attempts to discredit female leaders amid fears of defeat. The party urged investigations into Gachagua's statements, citing constitutional violations.
On November 25, 2025, the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) responded sharply to allegations made by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua against the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC). In a letter to IEBC Chairperson Erastus Edung Ethekon, UDA Secretary General Omar Hassan condemned Gachagua's accusations against Vice Chairperson Fahima Araphat Abdallah as 'constitutional red flags' and 'political tantrums' aimed at discrediting young women in leadership.
Hassan attributed the claims to Gachagua's anticipation of defeat in the Magarini constituency by-elections scheduled for November 27, 2025, in Kilifi County. He argued that Gachagua's letter violated Article 91(1)(f) of the Kenyan Constitution, which mandates political parties to respect human rights and promote gender equality. The UDA called on the IEBC and other governance institutions to investigate the origins of Gachagua's statements and take legal action against what they described as calls to chaos.
"As a key stakeholder in the democratic and governance processes of our Republic, the UDA Party respectfully urges the IEBC to exercise maximum legal reflection when dealing with Mr Gachagua," Hassan wrote. He added, "His long and well-documented disregard for public order imperatives should neither be underrated nor countenanced."
Gachagua's original letter, sent on November 24, 2025, alleged that Abdallah was facilitating election malpractice in Magarini by unlawfully providing names of preferred presiding officers to county officials and intimidating electoral staff, including returning officers. He referenced an incident on November 21, 2025, where Abdallah reportedly coerced officials in the constituency.
"I am aware that your Vice Chairperson Fahima Araphat Abdallah has assumed the roles of managing the Magarini by-elections through corrupt, covert means," Gachagua stated. He demanded an immediate investigation and Abdallah's resignation to safeguard the IEBC's integrity ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The exchange highlights tensions in Kenyan politics as by-elections approach, with UDA defending institutional processes while Gachagua, now leading the Democracy for the Citizens Party, pushes for electoral transparency.