Tubi Mohamed Tubi of the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) has been elected Member of Parliament for Isiolo South Constituency, securing 7,352 votes in a closely watched by-election that pitted him against his sister, Bina Tubi of the Jubilee Party.
A Family Rivalry
The by-election was triggered by the death of their father, Mohammed Tubi, setting the stage for a deeply personal and politically charged succession battle.
Bina Tubi finished a distant second with 634 votes, while the contest effectively became a two-horse race after National Economic Democratic Party (NEDP) candidate Isaac Fayo withdrew in favor of Mohamed, consolidating support behind the UDA flag.
Speaking after casting his ballot at Algani polling station, Mohamed acknowledged the unusual nature of competing against his sister:
“Unajua siasa haitambui ndugu ama dada. Kuna mambo mingi kwa siasa. Kama mimi wazee ndiyo waliniekelea mkono,” he said, suggesting elders had endorsed his candidature.
Allegations and IEBC Response
At Kinna polling station, Bina declined to address the media, leaving her agents to raise concerns over alleged irregularities. Her camp claimed the election was not free and fair, citing incidents of voter bribery at Kina Primary School.
However, officials from the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) dismissed the allegations, maintaining that the exercise met required standards. Security agencies also reported adequate measures throughout voting and tallying.
Isiolo County Commissioner David Kiprop confirmed that security was maintained from polling stations to the tallying center to ensure a smooth process.
Voter Turnout
Despite the high-profile nature of the sibling rivalry, turnout was estimated at 30 percent, raising concerns about voter apathy in the constituency.
