The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has urged voters in Ol Kalou Constituency to come out in large numbers and peacefully exercise their democratic right as polling continues in the parliamentary by-election.

In a statement shared on Thursday, July 16, 2026, the electoral agency encouraged residents to participate in the electoral process by voting for their preferred candidate while assuring them of access to accurate and verified election information through its official platforms.

“To all voters in Ol Kalou by-election: your participation matters. We encourage you to turn out in large numbers and peacefully exercise your democratic right and vote in your preferred candidate,” IEBC said.

Candidates lead by example as voting kicks off

The by-election officially commenced at 6am after IEBC opened polling stations across the constituency, with leading contenders among early voters.

Democratic Congress Party (DCP) candidate Sammy Douglas Kamau Waweru and United Democratic Alliance (UDA) candidate Samuel Muchina Nyaga cast their votes as they urged residents to take part in the exercise.

Muchina, speaking after voting, praised the peaceful conduct of the process and thanked election officials, security officers and other stakeholders for facilitating a smooth exercise.

“This morning, I have proudly exercised my democratic right by casting my vote. I thank God that the voting process has been peaceful, orderly, and smooth. I sincerely thank the IEBC officials, security personnel, party agents, and every stakeholder for ensuring a calm and transparent voting process,” Muchina said.

DCP candidate urges residents to maintain peace

Waweru also called on voters to participate in large numbers, describing voting as a responsibility that strengthens democracy.

“Voting is an expression of our commitment to ourselves, one another, and this constituency. Thank you for coming out early this morning in large numbers and for maintaining peace,” Waweru said.

He encouraged residents to mobilise fellow voters to participate before polling closes.

“I have exercised my democratic right. Make sure you reach out to someone and confirm that they have voted too,” he added.

Security heightened as queues emerge

Long queues were reported at several polling stations as voters arrived early to cast their ballots. IEBC is expected to close polling at 5pm, with those already in line by the official closing time allowed to vote.

Security has been intensified across the constituency, with officers deployed to ensure the exercise remains peaceful and orderly.

The Ol Kalou by-election has attracted national attention, with political observers viewing the contest as an indicator of shifting political dynamics ahead of the 2027 General Election.

IEBC has continued to call on voters, political parties and other stakeholders to uphold peace and respect the electoral process as counting preparations begin after voting ends.