Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) Chairperson Erastus Ethekon has warned voters in the Ol Kalou Constituency parliamentary by-election against taking photographs of their marked ballot papers, saying the practice is a serious electoral offence.
Speaking during the by-election on Wednesday, July 16, 2026, Ethekon reminded voters that the secrecy of the ballot is protected under Kenya's electoral laws and urged them to comply with the voting regulations.
"Do not take a picture of your ballot paper once you mark it. We shall prosecute you and if found guilty, pay a fine of Sh1,000,000," Ethekon said.
He noted that anyone found photographing a marked ballot paper risks prosecution and, upon conviction, could face a fine of up to KSh1 million, imprisonment for up to three years, or both, as provided under the Elections Act.
The IEBC chairperson emphasised that preserving the secrecy of the vote is essential to ensuring free, fair and credible elections.
His remarks came as residents of Ol Kalou voted to elect a new Member of Parliament in a closely watched by-election that has attracted significant political attention.
The commission has also urged voters to follow all polling procedures and avoid actions that could compromise the integrity of the electoral process.
