IEBC chairperson Erastus Ethekon speaking during the launch of Pre-Election Disputes Resolution Report for 2022 General Election and Case Digest for 2022 General Election, July 9, 2026 /IEBC
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has thanked Ol Kalou voters for turning out to participate in Thursday's parliamentary by-election, which recorded a voter turnout of 57 per cent, while commending all stakeholders for contributing to a peaceful electoral process.
In a statement on Friday, IEBC Chairperson Erastus Ethekon also expressed appreciation to the commission's staff, political parties, security agencies, civil society, the media and development partners for their role in ensuring the election was conducted in accordance with the law.
"The Commission expresses its sincere appreciation to the voters of Ol Kalou Constituency who turned out to exercise their democratic right during the by-election conducted on July 16, 2026, and all Kenyans for their support during the electioneering period," Ethekon said.
The electoral agency also announced that it will conduct a comprehensive post-election review to assess what worked well and identify areas requiring improvement ahead of future polls, including the 2027 General Election.
Ethekon said the exercise forms part of the commission's constitutional mandate under Article 88(4)(h), which requires IEBC to facilitate the observation, monitoring and evaluation of elections.
He said the commission will analyse reports from election stakeholders, draw lessons from the Ol Kalou by-election and adopt recommendations aimed at strengthening future electoral processes.
"The Commission is committed to reviewing stakeholders' reports, drawing lessons and adopting recommendations that will inform improvements ahead of future electoral activities, including the 2027 General Election," he said.
The chairperson noted that credible elections depend on collaboration among all actors, including political parties, security agencies, administrators, civil society organisations, the media and members of the public.
"Trust in our elections is built not only through technical excellence but also through the collective responsibility of all actors to protect the integrity of the process," he said.
Ethekon further thanked IEBC staff for their dedication, professionalism and long hours of service, saying their efforts ensured the electoral process complied fully with the law.
He also acknowledged development partners for helping bridge financial gaps in the by-election budget.
The commission said voter registration in Ol Kalou Constituency will resume after the expiry of the statutory election petition period.
Under Section 76 of the Elections Act, any person wishing to challenge the validity of the by-election has 28 days from the declaration of the results to file a petition.
Ethekon also urged political leaders, candidates and the public to uphold peaceful coexistence, embrace issue-based politics and continue participating constructively in the country's democratic processes.
DCP's Sammy Kamau won the seat, beating his close rival Samuel Muchina (UDA) with 35,440 votes against 5,450 votes.
Timothy Kariuki of PPM got 51 votes while Wilson Mwaniki (Jubilee) managed 198 votes.
Edwin Kareri (PNU) had 28 votes, Edward Mathenge (KKM) 16 votes, Rachel Wangui (PDP) 11 votes and Stephen Waithaka (NLP) 103 votes.
