Kirinyaga Governor Ann Waiguru has called on residents of Ol Kalou to maintain peace and uphold democratic values as voting continues in the closely watched Ol Kalou by-election.

In a statement on his X handle issued on Thursday, July 16, 2026, Waiguru expressed solidarity with voters exercising their constitutional right, noting that the turnout had been encouraging and that the atmosphere at polling stations remained calm and orderly.

“I stand with residents of Ol Kalou as they exercise their democratic right today. Turnout is encouraging, and the mood is calm and orderly,” Waiguru said.

The governor appealed to voters, candidates and party agents to ensure the election remains peaceful from the start of voting through to the declaration of results. She urged all stakeholders to respect the will of the people and avoid actions that could undermine the integrity of the electoral process.

“My appeal is simple: let us keep Ol Kalou peaceful. I urge every voter to come out and vote, and every agent and candidate to respect the will of the people,” Waiguru said.

She stressed that democracy thrives when elections are conducted in a peaceful and respectful environment, encouraging residents to safeguard their votes while embracing tolerance regardless of the outcome.

“Democracy is at its best when it is calm and respectful. Your vote is your voice; use it, protect it, and let us accept the outcome peacefully,” she added.

The Ol Kalou by-election has attracted significant political attention, with major parties seeking to secure the constituency in a contest widely viewed as an important political test ahead of the next general election.

Voting under heightened security

Security has been heightened across the constituency, with officers deployed to polling centres to ensure voters cast their ballots in a safe and orderly environment.

The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) officially opened polling stations across Ol Kalou Constituency at 6:00 a.m. on Thursday, marking the start of the highly anticipated parliamentary by-election.

Voting is scheduled to continue until 5:00 p.m., with any time lost during polling to be compensated by extending voting hours. The commission has also assured voters that anyone in the queue by the official closing time will be allowed to cast their ballot.

Election officials have also urged residents to remain peaceful throughout the exercise as the constituency chooses its next Member of Parliament.