Ol Kalou by-election: UDA’s Samuel Muchina cites tight security, claims agent’s vehicle attacked
By Ndiritu Wanjiru, July 16, 2026United Democratic Alliance (UDA) candidate Samuel Muchina Nyaga has praised the heavy security deployment across Ol Kalou Constituency, saying the arrangement had helped ensure a calm voting process despite isolated incidents of violence reported on the eve of the by-election.
Speaking after casting his vote on Thursday, July 16, 2026, Muchina said security personnel were visible across the constituency, giving voters confidence as they exercised their democratic right.
“I feel today the security is well organised; they are everywhere. The security is quite good today, apart from yesterday. One of my vehicles that was ferrying my agent was burnt by goons, but the situation was controlled,” Muchina said.
Muchina cites attack on campaign vehicle
Muchina has revealed that one of his campaign vehicles, which was transporting an election agent, was set ablaze by individuals he described as goons on the eve of the poll. He, however, said the incident did not disrupt the election process, adding that security officers quickly restored order.
The UDA candidate did not disclose whether anyone was injured during the incident or whether arrests had been made. Authorities had not immediately issued an official statement regarding the alleged attack.
Despite the incident, Muchina maintained that the overall security situation had significantly improved on polling day, allowing voting to proceed peacefully in most polling stations.
Tight security marks crucial by-election
The Ol Kalou by-election has attracted heightened political attention, with a closely contested race between the ruling UDA party and the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP). Security agencies deployed officers across the constituency to maintain law and order following heightened political activity during the campaign period.
The increased deployment came after reports of isolated confrontations and tensions in parts of the constituency ahead of voting, prompting calls from political leaders for a peaceful electoral process.
Voters urged to maintain peace
Election officials opened polling stations at 6:00 a.m., with voting expected to continue until 5:00 p.m. Voters who are in the queue by the official closing time will still be allowed to cast their ballots.
As residents continue to vote, leaders across the political divide have urged supporters to remain peaceful and allow the electoral process to proceed without intimidation or violence.
The by-election is being closely watched as a key political contest that could shape the balance of influence between UDA and DCP in Nyandarua County, with election observers and security agencies monitoring developments throughout polling day.