United Democratic Alliance (UDA) candidate Samuel Muchina Nyaga has called on the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to investigate allegations of electoral malpractice during the ongoing Ol Kalou parliamentary by-election. Speaking after casting his vote on Thursday, Muchina alleged that attempts to influence voters through bribery had been reported at some polling stations. He urged the electoral commission to take swift action to safeguard the credibility of the election. According to the UDA candidate, the information came from his campaign team, although he said he had not yet filed a formal complaint with the relevant authorities.
Muchina also claimed that one of his campaign vehicles was set on fire on the eve of the election while transporting party agents in the Mugumo area. He said the incident was quickly brought under control and noted that, apart from the alleged arson attack, the election had proceeded without any major security challenges. The UDA flag bearer added that he intends to officially report the incident to the appropriate investigative agencies to allow a thorough inquiry.
While raising concerns over the alleged incidents, Muchina expressed confidence that the IEBC would investigate the claims and ensure the electoral process remains transparent and credible. He emphasized the importance of protecting the integrity of the vote and maintaining public confidence in the democratic process.
Despite the allegations, the UDA candidate described the voting exercise as generally peaceful and praised the turnout of voters across the constituency. He said residents had actively participated in the election following months of campaigning and encouraged those who had not yet voted to exercise their democratic right before polling stations closed. Muchina also voiced confidence in his chances of winning the parliamentary seat, saying he believed the final outcome would reflect the will of the people.
Voting is continuing across all 144 polling stations in Ol Kalou Constituency, where 73,480 registered voters are expected to elect a new Member of Parliament. The by-election was called following the death of former MP David Njuguna Kiaraho in March, leaving the seat vacant.
Several candidates are contesting the seat, including Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) candidate Sammy Douglas Kamau Waweru, Jubilee Party candidate Wilson Kigwa, and People’s Renaissance Movement candidate Timothy Kariuki, all of whom are scheduled to cast their ballots at their respective polling stations during the day. As voting continues, election officials and security agencies are expected to monitor the exercise closely to ensure a peaceful, transparent, and credible electoral process.
