The government has called for calm ahead of Thursday’s by-elections, warning that perpetrators of violence will face the full weight of the law. Speaking on the last day of campaigning, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki said anyone trying to instigate violence will face the full wrath of the law.

Meanwhile, the Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has warned journalists against publishing unscientific surveys, which could influence the results of dozens of upcoming by-elections to fill parliamentary seats. The advisory comes amid a surge in violence in some constituencies.

According to the council, instant polls, often conducted through quick prompts on air or via social media, should adhere to the legal threshold required for electoral opinion research.