Tension and debate have erupted in Malava Constituency after a video surfaced showing government-labeled rice being distributed to residents ahead of Tuesday’s by-election.
The incident occurred on November 24, 2025, the final day of campaigns for candidates contesting various seats across the country.
In the footage, residents are seen lining up as bags of rice marked with government insignia are handed out by individuals believed to be linked to state operatives.
Among them was Hon. Ndakwa, who appeared prominently in the distribution exercise, drawing sharp reactions from both supporters and critics.
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According to witnesses, the exercise attracted hundreds of locals, many of whom rushed to the collection point after word spread that food items were being issued.
The move, however, has sparked accusations of voter influence, with rival camps claiming the Kenya Kwanza administration is using state resources to sway the outcome in favor of its preferred candidate.
Election observers and civil society groups have also weighed in, calling on the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to investigate whether the distribution constitutes a breach of electoral laws.
Despite the controversy, the Kenya Kwanza camp has remained silent, as the constituency braces for a highly watched by-election.