Ol Kalou by-election : IEBC finalises preparations ,verifies ballot papers ahead of July 16 vote
By Ndiritu Wanjiru, July 15, 2026The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has entered the final phase of preparations for the highly anticipated Ol Kalou Parliamentary by-election, with election materials being distributed to polling officials ahead of voting on Wednesday, July 16.
In a statement on their X handle on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, the IEBC noted that the exercise, conducted under the supervision of the returning officer, saw sealed pallets containing ballot papers opened in the presence of candidates, chief agents, security agencies and members of the media. The process allowed stakeholders to verify that the security seals remained intact and confirm that the serial numbers on the ballot papers matched those of their designated polling stations.
“The returning officer, in the presence of candidates, chief agents, security agencies and members of the media, is overseeing the opening of the sealed pallets containing ballot papers,” the IEBC stated.
According to the Commission, the verification exercise is a key transparency measure aimed at safeguarding the credibility of the electoral process and assuring stakeholders that all election materials have been handled in accordance with established procedures.
The distribution of election materials marks the final logistical stage before polling officials transport them to their respective polling stations across Ol Kalou Constituency.
The by-election has attracted significant national attention following weeks of intense political campaigns by both the Kenya Kwanza administration and the opposition, making it one of the most closely watched electoral contests ahead of the 2027 general election.
“The exercise enables stakeholders to verify that the security seals remain intact and confirm that the ballot paper serial numbers correspond to their respective polling stations,” the IEBC statement added.
A glimpse at Ol Kalou
A total of 73,480 registered voters in Ol Kalou Constituency will on Thursday, July 16, 2026, elect a new Member of Parliament in a contest that has become a political battle between President William Ruto and former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) will conduct voting in 144 polling stations spread across Rurii, Kanjuiri Ridge, Karau, Kaimbaga and Mirangine wards.
The IEBC has reiterated its commitment to conducting a free, fair and transparent election, stating that the ballot verification exercise reflects its focus on accountability, integrity and public confidence in the electoral process.
The Commission has also urged voters, candidates and the public to rely on its official communication channels for verified election information and to disregard misinformation circulating online.
Polling is expected to begin early Thursday morning, with election officials and security agencies on standby to facilitate a peaceful and orderly voting process.