Gachagua Accuses State, IEBC Of Plot To Undermine Ol Kalou By-Election
Politics Updated: 10 July 2026 15:04 EAT
Photo Courtesy: Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua addressing the Press Conference at the DCP Headquarters in Nairobi.
Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua has accused the government and the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) of conspiring to undermine democracy ahead of the Ol kalou by_election and the 2027 General Election.
Speaking to journalists, the former Deputy President criticised the IEBC over what he termed failures in handling electoral matters, claiming that the commission has lost public confidence and is perceived by some Kenyans as favouring the government.
Gachagua said the Constitution requires the electoral body to conduct free, fair and transparent elections through secret ballots, without intimidation, violence, corruption or undue influence. He accused the commission of failing to act firmly against alleged electoral malpractices.
The DCP leader cited previous by-elections, including the November 2025 polls in areas such as Baron North, Malava and Narok Ward Township, where he alleged violence and irregularities occurred without adequate action from the IEBC.
He also claimed that the Kasipul Kabondo by-election was marred by irregularities, including late-night campaign activities that he said the electoral commission failed to address.
Turning his focus to the July 16, 2026 Ol Kalou by-election, Gachagua alleged that DCP officials were attacked and robbed at the Royal Garden Hotel in Nyahururu on July 1. He blamed what he described as a rogue police unit allegedly linked to political actors, accusing it of intimidating opposition supporters.
Gachagua further criticised IEBC Chairman Aras Ethon over remarks suggesting the Ol Kalou poll could be postponed due to security concerns. He accused the commission of failing to use its legal powers to guarantee a peaceful election.
The DCP leader also alleged that senior government officials had abandoned their duties to campaign for the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) candidate in Ol Kalou. He claimed state resources were being used to influence voters through various projects and handouts.
He made further claims of financial mobilisation to support the ruling party’s campaign, alleging that billions of shillings were being channelled through political networks. The accusations have not been independently verified.
Gachagua warned that postponing the Ol Kalou by-election would create a dangerous precedent ahead of the 2027 General Election, alleging that it could be used as a justification for delaying future polls.
He called on the IEBC to uphold its constitutional mandate and urged the Inspector General of Police to deploy uniformed officers to oversee security during the by-election.
The DCP leader urged Ol Kalou residents to participate in the election, saying voters should protect their democratic rights by turning out in large numbers.
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FELIX MAKONA
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