The electoral commission has urged candidates and supporters to uphold peace after reports of suspected goons being mobilised ahead of the parliamentary by-election. The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has issued a warning against violence, intimidation and other acts that could interfere with the upcoming Ol Kalou parliamentary by-election.
IEBC Chairperson Erastus Ethekon said the commission had received reports of groups of suspected goons allegedly being organised to disrupt campaigns and threaten the peaceful conduct of the electoral process. Speaking during a joint briefing with Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja after the official end of campaigns, Ethekon said the incidents reported in parts of the constituency had raised concern as the commission works to deliver a credible election. He noted that some groups had reportedly been moving around the constituency in ways that could intimidate voters, candidates and supporters.
The IEBC chairperson further claimed that some of the groups were allegedly receiving support from political actors involved in the contest. With campaigns now concluded, Ethekon called on candidates, political parties and their supporters to respect the Electoral Code of Conduct and allow residents to participate freely in the democratic process.
He said the commission would continue monitoring the situation and take action against individuals found engaging in electoral offences. Ethekon revealed that the IEBC had already summoned some politicians over alleged violations, with some facing penalties and being required to recommit to the Electoral Code of Conduct.
Security Measures Increased Ahead of Poll
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja assured Ol Kalou residents that security agencies had put adequate measures in place to ensure a peaceful election. Kanja, accompanied by his deputies and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) leadership, said enough officers had been deployed across the constituency to protect voters, election officials and election materials.
He urged residents to remain calm, follow the law and report any incidents that could threaten the voting process. The IEBC expressed confidence that the Ol Kalou by-election would be conducted in a free, fair, transparent and peaceful environment.
