By James Murimi - Reporter
Kenya, 14 July 2026 - The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has dismissed claims that the voters' register for the Ol Kalou parliamentary by-election has been tampered with, assuring voters that Thursday's mini-poll will proceed as planned under tight security.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the electoral agency said all logistical and security preparations had been completed for the July 16 by-election to elect a new Member of Parliament for Ol Kalou Constituency in Nyandarua County.
The Commission described allegations that the register had been manipulated as "false, misleading and unsupported by evidence," warning political players against spreading misinformation that could undermine public confidence in the electoral process.
"The Register of Voters for the Ol Kalou Constituency by-election remains secure. Claims that the Register has been manipulated are false, misleading and unsupported by evidence," the Commission said.
The IEBC urged all stakeholders to refrain from circulating unverified information, saying it was committed to protecting the integrity of the election.
The by-election comes amid heightened political interest, with major political parties viewing the contest as an early test of their strength ahead of the 2027 General Election.
To guarantee a peaceful poll, the Commission said it had worked closely with the National Police Service to deploy adequate security personnel across the constituency.
Each polling station will have two uniformed police officers, while additional officers will be stationed at tallying centres to maintain law and order and safeguard the credibility of the election.
Polling stations will open at 6 a.m. and close at 5 p.m., although voting hours may be extended where polling starts late to ensure voters receive the full voting period. The Commission also assured that every voter in the queue by 5 p.m. will be allowed to cast a ballot.
The IEBC reminded voters that they must present either a national identity card or a valid Kenyan passport before being allowed to vote.
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It also warned that taking photographs or recording marked ballot papers inside polling booths is an election offence punishable under the Election Offences Act.
Political parties, candidates, agents and supporters were cautioned to strictly observe the Electoral Code of Conduct, with the Commission warning that it would not hesitate to take enforcement action against anyone found violating electoral laws.
"Our investigation team is actively investigating all alleged violations with a view to enforcing the Code of Conduct fully," the Commission said.
The electoral body further appealed to voters, election observers, civil society organisations and the public to report any incidents of voter intimidation, electoral malpractice or breaches of the Code of Conduct to the IEBC, the National Police Service or other authorised investigative agencies.
Reaffirming its commitment to a transparent electoral process, the Commission said it remained focused on delivering a peaceful, free, fair and credible election that reflects the will of the people.
"Registered voters of Ol Kalou Constituency, your vote is your voice. Turn out in large numbers, cast your ballot and peacefully shape the future of your constituency," the statement concluded.
IEBC Dismisses Ol Kalou Poll Rigging Claims Ahead of Crucial By-Election
IEBC urges all stakeholders to refrain from circulating unverified information.