IEBC Announces dates for Ol Kalou, Dikir constituencies By-Elections

News Updated: 26 April 2026 12:43 EAT

Kenya’s electoral landscape is set for a significant mid-year shift as the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) prepares to fill several vacant legislative and assembly seats. In a recent Gazette Notice, the commission officially scheduled by-elections for July 16, 2026, headlined by the race for the Ol Kalou constituency seat in Nyandarua County.

The vacancy in Ol Kalou arose following the tragic passing of Member of Parliament David Njuguna Kiaraho, who died on March 29 while receiving treatment at the Nairobi Hospital. To ensure a smooth transition, the IEBC has outlined a strict administrative timeline for the mini-poll.

Political parties and independent hopefuls have a narrow window to organize their bids. Parties are required to submit the names and signatures of their primary candidates by May 4, 2026. For those opting for indirect nominations, the deadline is pushed slightly to May 15.

In line with electoral laws, any public officers eyeing the parliamentary seat were mandated to resign within seven days of the vacancy declaration.

As the constituency prepares for the vote, the IEBC has suspended all voter registration and record revisions in Ol Kalou until August 13, 2026. This freeze allows the commission to finalize the voter register ahead of the official campaign period, which is set to run from May 25 through July 13.

Ol Kalou is not the only area heading to the polls this July. The electoral body is managing a multi-regional slate of elections due to recent leadership losses.

In Emurua Dikirr, Narok County) , A parliamentary by-election will be held to replace the late Johana Ng’eno, who died in a helicopter crash in February. On the same day, residents of Porro Ward (Samburu) and Endo Ward (Elgeyo/Marakwet) will cast their votes to elect new Members of County Assembly (MCAs).

These by-elections represent a crucial moment for these constituencies to redefine their representation and address local issues that have remained in limbo since the occurrence of these vacancies.

With the campaigns set to kick off in late May, the political atmosphere in these regions is expected to intensify as parties vie for control in both the National Assembly and local chambers.