Trans-Nzoia Governor George Natembeya and Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale have strongly criticized the November 27, 2025 Malava Constituency by-elections, alleging government interference. They claim state machinery was used to influence the outcome rather than protect voters, raising concerns about the integrity of the upcoming 2027 general elections.

• Governor Natembeya stated that the government, through security deployments and state operatives, influenced voters and engaged in open voter bribery during the Malava by-election.
• Senator Khalwale warned that Kenya risks facing an electoral predicament similar to Tanzania in 2027 due to the perceived malpractices.
• The leaders questioned the state's commitment to fair competition and the credibility of future national polls given the heavy deployment of security and financial persuasion in a single by-election in Western Kenya.