Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K) leader Eugene Wamalwa has weighed in on the Ol Kalou parliamentary by-election, congratulating DCP candidate Sammy Kamau and saying the vote demonstrated that “the ballot remains more powerful than intimidation, excessive force, or the politics of patronage,” as the IEBC continues tallying results.

The by-election, held on July 16, 2026, was triggered by the death of former Ol Kalou MP David Njuguna Kiaraho in March and has attracted national political attention as a key contest in the Mt. Kenya region.

In a post on X, Eugene Wamalwa hailed Kamau’s performance, writing: “Your victory is a resounding affirmation that in a democracy, the ballot remains more powerful than intimidation, excessive force, or the politics of patronage.”

He praised the “resilient and courageous people of Ol Kalou” for resisting “voter inducements, intimidation, and an overwhelming display of state machinery,” saying votes are ultimately cast by conscience rather than money or pressure.

Wamalwa concluded by looking ahead to the August 10, 2027 General Election, saying “no amount of money, intimidation, or abuse of state power will outweigh the sovereign will of the Kenyan people.”

Opposition leaders weigh in

Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka also congratulated Kamau and the DCP, describing the outcome as a demonstration of the people’s will.

He said: “Sammy Kamau Ngotho and the DCP on this resounding victory,” adding that the by-election had sent a “WANTAM” message ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki also congratulated Sammy Douglas Waweru Kamau before the completion of the official tally.

In a post on X, Kindiki urged Kamau to unite residents and serve them without distinction.

He also commended United Democratic Alliance (UDA) candidate Samuel Muchina for running “a good show and a mature, issue-based campaign,” adding that Muchina’s “star shines bright into the future.”

Muchina also conceded before the official declaration, posting on Facebook: “Congratulations Sammy Kamau Waweru. Go serve the people of Ol Kalou Constituency.”

IEBC tallying continues

The IEBC said most polling stations opened on time and voting proceeded largely peacefully, although it condemned isolated incidents of violence and reminded election officials to comply with electoral laws.

The commission reported voter turnout of about 50.78 per cent by 3:00 pm and urged the public to rely only on official communication as tallying and verification continue.

Provisional results from polling stations showed the DCP candidate maintaining an early lead, although the commission is yet to announce the official outcome.

The by-election has been closely watched following months of political campaigning by both the Kenya Kwanza administration and the opposition.

Deputy President Kindiki’s message came months after he vowed to politically deal with Gachagua in the Ol Kalou by-election.

Speaking during an economic empowerment event in Nyandarua County in May, Kindiki said: “We have a by-election coming up in Ol Kalou, Nyandarua; we will meet with that man. We will deal with him squarely, and that is where respect will start reigning.”

With tallying still underway, the Ol Kalou by-election has already emerged as one of the country’s most closely watched political contests ahead of the 2027 General Election.