IEBC Chairperson Erastus Edung Ethekon
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has warned that it could postpone or even cancel the Ol Kalou by-election scheduled for Thursday, July 16, 2026.
Speaking on Thursday, July 9, IEBC Chairperson Erastus Ethekon said the commission will be forced to take action if insecurity and breaches of the electoral code of conduct persist in Ol Kalou.
Ethekon condemned incidents of violence, voter bribery, destruction of campaign materials, and the alleged use of hired gangs during campaigns in the constituency.
“In the event that, working with the security officials and other stakeholders, we find that the environment is not conducive enough for us to conclude the by-election in Ol Kalou, we will be left with no choice other than to take the most unfortunate and drastic step of postponing the elections in Ol Kalou. And if that’s not enough, we will cancel it altogether,” Ethekon said.
The IEBC boss noted that the commission has already deployed investigative teams to Ol Kalou and would strictly enforce the Electoral Code of Conduct.
Ethekon also warned that candidates found responsible for violating the code could face sanctions, including disqualification.
“When we find any culpability or any breaches of the code of conduct, the proper remedies shall apply up to, including disqualifying some of those candidates,” he said.
This comes days after former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua claimed that Ol Kalou residents were being asked to hand over their IDs in exchange for free gas cylinders and mattresses.
In a statement, the former DP said the alleged scheme is aimed at denying the locals an opportunity to participate in the by-election
“Reports reaching me from Olkalou are that residents are being asked to surrender their identity cards in exchange for a free gas cylinder and a GoK-branded mattress.
“This is a scheme to deny you the opportunity and right to vote in the by-elections of 16th July 2026,” he claimed.
