The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has appealed to voters in Ol Kalou Constituency to turn out in large numbers and peacefully cast their ballots as the constituency elects a new Member of Parliament.
In a statement issued as voting got underway on Thursday, the electoral agency encouraged residents to exercise their democratic right by voting for the candidate of their choice, while urging them to maintain peace throughout the exercise.
"To all voters in the Ol Kalou by-election: your participation matters. We encourage you to turn out in large numbers and peacefully exercise your democratic right and vote for your preferred candidate," the Commission said.
The by-election was called following the death of Ol Kalou MP David Kiaraho earlier this year, leaving the seat vacant and necessitating a fresh poll in accordance with the Constitution and the Elections Act.
The contest has attracted national attention, with both the Kenya Kwanza coalition and opposition leaders treating it as an important political test ahead of the 2027 General Election. Senior political figures from both camps have campaigned vigorously in the constituency, raising the stakes in what is otherwise a routine by-election.
The IEBC has, however, sought to keep the focus on the electoral process, issuing a series of voter education messages on polling procedures, assisted voting and the need for voters to obtain election information from official sources.
The Commission also reminded the public to rely on verified updates published on its official website and social media platforms to guard against misinformation that often circulates during elections.
Polling stations opened at 6 a.m. and are expected to close at 5 p.m., after which counting will begin at individual polling stations before results are transmitted to the constituency tallying centre.
The winner of the election will succeed the late David Kiaraho and represent Ol Kalou Constituency in the National Assembly for the remainder of the current parliamentary term.
As voting continues, the IEBC has appealed to all stakeholders—including voters, candidates, political parties and their supporters—to uphold peace and allow the electoral process to proceed freely, fairly and transparently.
