Senator Maanzo calls for free and fair polls as IEBC takes charge in Ol Kalou
By Aloys Michael, July 16, 2026Makueni Senator Dan Maanzo has urged the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) and security agencies to guarantee a peaceful, transparent and credible Ol Kalou by-election, warning that voter confidence will depend on the conduct of the electoral process.
Speaking in an interview on a local TV station on Thursday, July 16, 2026, Maanzo said security must be prioritised to ensure residents of Ol Kalou participate in the by-election without fear, intimidation or interference.
“That there is not going to be interference, and first and foremost, there should be security,” Maanzo said, adding that officers deployed during the election period should help protect the integrity of the exercise.
The senator said police officers assigned to oversee security during the Ol Kalou by-election should operate in a manner that supports a free and fair election, noting that all election officials and security personnel would be under close public scrutiny.
“The police officers deployed in Ol Kalou today are deemed to be election officers, and therefore they are under the command of IEBC, and should be able to be free and fair,” he said.
Maanzo warns against voter intimidation
Maanzo also appealed to Ol Kalou residents in Nyandarua County to turn out in large numbers and exercise their democratic rights without fear.
His remarks come after concerns were raised over tensions during the campaign period, with the senator saying some incidents had affected public confidence.
“The campaigns have been very rough. There have been very many instances of insecurity,” Maanzo said.
He claimed there had been incidents where people were attacked by individuals suspected to be organised groups, urging authorities to ensure voters feel protected before, during and after the election.
“We want the people first of all to feel safe, to know that security has been provided, to come out in large numbers without fear,” he said.
The Makueni senator said the Ol Kalou by-election would be closely watched because of its potential political impact beyond the constituency.
According to Maanzo, the contest is expected to be highly competitive and could influence future political developments.
“I believe it is going to be a tough election. It’s going to determine the political future of many things,” he said.
He called on IEBC to take full responsibility for managing the electoral process and ensuring that all participants compete on a level playing field.
“I believe IEBC should be able to take charge of this. We are all watching,” Maanzo stated.
Observers to monitor election process
Maanzo said the by-election would attract attention from observers and political stakeholders interested in ensuring that the outcome reflects the will of voters.
“There are enough observers there. There are many, many people wishing,” he said.
The senator’s comments come as political leaders continue to call for peaceful elections, fair treatment of candidates and protection of voters’ rights.
As residents of Ol Kalou continue to vote, attention remains focused on whether security agencies and the IEBC will deliver a credible electoral process that allows voters to freely choose their representatives.