The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has issued final reminders to voters in Ol Kalou Constituency ahead of the parliamentary by-election scheduled for Thursday, July 16, 2026.

In a statement on Monday, July 13, IEBC said campaigns in the constituency would officially end at 6:00pm, in line with electoral laws that require campaigns to stop 48 hours before polling day.

“Campaigns officially end today, Monday, 13 July 2026, at 6:00 p.m., which is 48 hours before polling day, in accordance with the law,” IEBC said.

The commission also reminded voters that they must present original identification documents before being allowed to vote.

“To vote, you MUST PRESENT YOUR ORIGINAL NATIONAL IDENTITY CARD or a VALID KENYAN PASSPORT at your designated polling station,” IEBC stated.

The electoral agency urged residents of Ol Kalou to rely on official communication channels for accurate information as the constituency prepares for the by-election.

“For accurate and up-to-date information, please visit the IEBC official website and follow our verified social media platforms,” the commission said.

The Ol Kalou parliamentary seat fell vacant following the death of former MP David Kiaraho, triggering the need for a by-election to elect his successor.

The contest has attracted national attention, with political parties using the race as an early test ahead of the 2027 general election.

The final phase of campaigns has been marked by accusations of voter bribery, violence and misuse of public resources, with different political actors demanding action from IEBC and other state agencies.

IEBC faces election pressure

IEBC Chairperson Erastus Ethekon recently warned that the commission could postpone or cancel the Ol Kalou by-election if conditions did not allow for a free and credible poll.

Ethekon said the commission had received reports of voter bribery, night campaigns and election-related violence, including the death of one person.

“We have witnessed voter bribery, campaigns at night and violence leading to the death of one person,” Ethekon said.

He added that IEBC had deployed investigators to establish facts and take action against individuals found to have violated election laws.

The warning sparked reactions from political leaders, including Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua, who accused IEBC of targeting the constituency unfairly.

Gachagua claimed the commission’s concerns were being used to delay the election, claiming that the government feared losing the seat. IEBC has not endorsed those claims.

Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka also criticised the electoral commission, warning that its handling of the Ol Kalou by-election would affect public confidence ahead of the 2027 polls.

“We have heard your signals, and we are watching closely,” Kalonzo said, accusing IEBC of failing to act firmly against alleged electoral offences.

Amnesty International Kenya has also called for investigations into claims of voter inducement, intimidation and political violence. The rights organisation urged IEBC, the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) to ensure accountability.

Despite the concerns, IEBC has continued preparations for the Ol Kalou by-election. The commission said training for presiding officers and deputy presiding officers had been completed, while polling clerks were undergoing training.

The July 16 vote will see Ol Kalou residents choose their next Member of Parliament, with IEBC calling on voters to participate peacefully and use their constitutional right to elect a representative.

“Your Vote, Your Voice,” the commission said in its reminder to voters.