Security has been intensified ahead of the Ol Kalou parliamentary by-election as former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua alleges plans to rig the poll through police deployment, power disruptions, and internet interference.

Heavy Security Deployed Ahead of Poll

Security has been significantly reinforced in Ol Kalou Constituency on the eve of the parliamentary by-election, with hundreds of police officers deployed to maintain law and order during the highly anticipated vote. Authorities say the increased security presence is intended to ensure a peaceful, free, and orderly election.

Gachagua Raises Rigging Allegations

Former Deputy President and DCP leader Rigathi Gachagua has alleged that the government intends to manipulate the by-election through the deployment of large numbers of police officers and alleged hired goons.

In a letter addressed to Inspector General Douglas Kanja and another to the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), Gachagua claimed more than 2,000 police officers had been deployed with the intention of intimidating voters and influencing the outcome of the election.

Claims of Internet and Power Interference

Among his allegations, Gachagua claimed there were plans to interfere with electricity supply and internet connectivity during vote counting to create an opportunity for electoral malpractice.

He also alleged that plain-clothes security officers could be deployed inside polling stations and urged the IEBC to guarantee transparent tallying and the accreditation of all party agents. These allegations have not been independently verified, and the IEBC has not confirmed them.

“Let Kenyans Decide Freely”

Gachagua challenged President William Ruto to allow the people of Ol Kalou to vote freely without intimidation, arguing that the by-election would serve as a test of Kenya’s democratic institutions ahead of the 2027 General Election.

IEBC and Security Agencies

The IEBC has maintained that it is committed to conducting a credible, free, and fair election, while security agencies say officers have been deployed solely to maintain peace and protect voters.

As residents prepare to cast their ballots, political leaders from across the divide have appealed for calm and urged supporters to avoid violence.