Ol Kalou MP-elect Ngotho calls for probe into violence that left 2 dead during by-election
By David Nthua, July 23, 2026Ol Kalou MP-elect Sammy Kamau Ngotho has asked the government to investigate the violence witnessed during the July 16, 2026, parliamentary by-election.
Ngotho spoke on Thursday, July 23, during the funeral of James Muigai Mwathi and Zachariah Gakinya Mukora. The two men died following separate incidents reported during the mini-poll.
“It is very painful burying these two,” Ngotho said. “My own cousin was threatened by these goons. He was threatened with rape. So these concerns of rape are true.”
Ngotho appeals to chiefs
The MP-elect said residents had raised concerns about people who entered the constituency and attacked voters.
“Watu wamekuja, wametupiga na wanataka hata kurape wasichana wetu, wamama wetu,” he said.
Ngotho also addressed chiefs and assistant chiefs. He reminded them that their work was to implement government policies within their areas.
“To assistant chiefs and chiefs, your work is to implement government policies in your places of jurisdiction. Do not allow yourselves to be misled,” he said.
He asked administrators who failed residents during the election to admit their mistakes.
“Where wrongdoing happened, it is good to admit. You should resign or ask for forgiveness from the electorate,” he added.
Ngotho also directed a political message to President William Ruto.
“Even if all of us are dead, the remaining one will still tell you ‘Wantam’,” he said.
Wantam is a political phrase derived from “one term”. It is used by government critics calling for Ruto to leave office after the 2027 General Election.
DCI investigating Ol Kalou violence
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations has opened an investigation into the violence and the presence of armed, hooded people during the election.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen said investigators would establish who the individuals were, why they were in Ol Kalou and the offences committed.
“I want to tell the nation that the DCI has already opened a file. Investigations are ongoing. Persons will be summoned,” Murkomen said.
President Ruto has also directed security agencies to intensify the fight against political gangs.
“There cannot be any defence for criminality and for breaking the law,” Ruto said at State House on Tuesday, July 21.
Gachagua said armed people in civilian clothes attacked residents despite the heavy deployment of police officers. He also accused rogue officers of working with criminal groups.
Murkomen has asked anyone with information about deaths, injuries or sexual violence to record a statement with investigators. He said those found responsible would be taken to court.