Irate youth in Mwingi North clobbered the Nguutani Member of the County Assembly, Stephen Ileve Katana over voter bribery claims an hour before the polling stations opened.

The incident happened at Kyome Thaana on Thursday where a by-election was being conducted.

A video clip that has since gone viral online shows Katana seated on the ground holding Sh100 notes and surrounded by irate youth who questioned his presence at the scene and accused him of voter bribery.

"What businesses do you have here yet this is not even your ward, the money you have since made in the county assembly, is the same you are now using to bribe our voters," an irate youth said.

Mwingi west OCPD Kazungu Charo confirmed the incident and said the youth met Katana when he was heading to Migwani market before frisking him and taking away a total of Sh500,000 from him.

"The report was on allegations that he was heading to Migwani market and had Sh500,000 where he met youths known to him who frisked him, took the money away from him and beat him," Charo said.

Charo added that investigations into the matter are underway to establish the MCA’s erratic movement and peculiar choice of transport.

However, Katana denied the allegations of voter bribery and alleged the youth that beat him up were Wiper Party goons.

He assured members of the public that he was okay and was home safe and sound.

"They have clobbered me, but it's okay. I've reported the matter to the police. I am breathing and am now at home," Katana said.

The Kyome Thaana by-election has attracted 11 candidates who are hoping to clinch the seat.