IEBC Sets Ground Rules for Assisted Voting in Ol Kalou By-Election
The by-election is being held to fill the seat left vacant following the death of Jubilee MP David Njuguna Kiaraho on March 29, 2026.
Photo: Courtesy.
By Robert Mutasi
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has clarified the rules for assisted voting as residents of Ol Kalou vote to elect a new Member of Parliament.
In a statement issued on Thursday, July 16, 2026, the Commission said voters who require assistance due to disability, illiteracy or other lawful reasons are entitled to be assisted by a person of their own choice.
The agency, however, stressed that the law places strict limits on the process.
“However, only one assistant is permitted, and no person shall assist more than one voter. Such assistance shall be recorded, and the assistant shall be appropriately marked as proof of having assisted a voter, in accordance with the law,” IEBC said.
The Commission encouraged residents to turn out in large numbers and vote peacefully.
“To all voters in the Ol Kalou by-election: your participation matters. We encourage you to turn out in large numbers and peacefully exercise your democratic right and vote in your preferred candidate,” it said.
IEBC reiterated that all voters will be identified biometrically using the Kenya Integrated Elections Management System (KIEMS) kit before receiving ballot papers.
It also reminded voters that the secrecy of the ballot is protected by the Constitution, warning against photographing or recording marked ballot papers, which it said constitutes an electoral offence.
Polling stations opened at 6.00 am and will close at 5.00 pm. The Commission said any time lost will be recovered, and voters on the queue by closing time will be allowed to vote.
The by-election is being held to fill the seat left vacant following the death of Jubilee MP David Njuguna Kiaraho on March 29, 2026.
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