Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua on Thursday sought to frame the Ol Kalou by-election as a defining political contest over the dignity and identity of the Mt Kenya region, urging residents to turn out in large numbers and guard what he described as the people's will.
In a lengthy message issued as voting got underway, Gachagua invoked the legacy of Kenya's anti-colonial struggle, drawing parallels between the by-election and the fight for freedom led by Mau Mau heroes. He urged voters to look toward the Aberdare Forest, where Field Marshal Dedan Kimathi led the armed resistance against British colonial rule, and to honour the memory of the late JM Kariuki, whom he described as a champion of the oppressed.
"My good people of Ol Kalou, the land of the late JM Kariuki... continue flowing to the polling stations as you have done early this morning and affirm our dignity and pride," Gachagua said.
The former deputy president portrayed the vote as more than a contest for parliamentary representation, arguing it was an opportunity for residents to reclaim their political voice.
"We are priceless and will never sell our birthright to anyone, no matter the price," he declared, praising voters for resisting intimidation and remaining "fearless."
His remarks come against the backdrop of an increasingly polarised political environment, with both the Kenya Kwanza administration and Gachagua's allies treating the Ol Kalou by-election as a key test of political influence in the Mt Kenya region.
Gachagua particularly commended young people whom he said had escorted older voters to polling stations, describing their actions as a social responsibility to protect the community. He also praised women for what he termed their steadfast leadership in safeguarding the region's interests.
He urged all supporters of his political cause to vote before 11 a.m., saying early turnout would allow elderly voters to return home while younger supporters remained near polling stations to monitor the electoral process.
"As our mothers and the elderly go back home to wait for the declaration of victory, the young and strong will remain behind, vigilant and alert, to make sure the will of the people is safeguarded," he said.
The appeal is likely to draw attention because of its emphasis on supporters remaining around polling centres after casting their ballots. Kenya's electoral laws generally require voters to leave polling stations after voting unless they are accredited election officials, party agents or observers.
Gachagua also sought to rally support beyond Nyandarua County, saying residents from Kiambu, Murang'a, Kirinyaga, Nyeri, Embu, Meru, Tharaka-Nithi, Laikipia, Nakuru, Mpeketoni, Loitoktok, Kibiku, Londiani, Narok, Burnt Forest, Kitale and Nairobi were closely following developments in Ol Kalou.
According to him, people across the region were encouraged by reports of long queues and high voter turnout, which he described as a sign that residents were determined to "restore their pride and dignity."
In a symbolic conclusion to his message, Gachagua said he was praying while facing Mt Kenya, expressing confidence that "the dignity of my people will be restored before the sun sets."
The Ol Kalou by-election has attracted national attention, with political leaders viewing the outcome as a potential indicator of shifting alliances and voter sentiment in the Mt Kenya region ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Beyond filling a parliamentary vacancy, the contest has evolved into a battle for political influence, with Gachagua using the campaign to reinforce his standing as a leading voice in the region while challenging the influence of the ruling administration.
As voting continues, attention will shift to turnout figures, the conduct of the election and, ultimately, whether the by-election delivers the political statement that Gachagua has urged Ol Kalou voters to make.
