IEBC, police issue stern warning ahead of high-stakes by-election in Ol Kalou
The IEBC and Kenyan police have issued strict guidelines for the Ol-Kalou by-election, including a ban on photographing ballots and restrictions on 'super agents'. These measures are intended to ensure electoral integrity and serve as a test for the 2027 general election.
Why it matters
Strict enforcement of electoral laws in local by-elections is being used as a benchmark for national electoral preparedness.
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja/FILE
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) and the National Police Service have issued a raft of strict guidelines ahead of Thursday's Ol-Kalou by-election. In a joint press conference, the two agencies warned that anyone flouting electoral laws will face severe penalties.
IEBC chairman Erastus Ethekon said the commission will enforce election regulations to safeguard the integrity of the vote.
Thursday’s exercise is also viewed as a major test of the electoral body's preparedness for the 2027 general election.
Among the key directives is a warning for voters against photographing their marked ballot papers, with offenders risking prosecution and a fine of up to Sh1 million.
"It is against Section 7 of the Elections Offences Act. You shall actually be prosecuted and, if found guilty, you pay a fine of up to Sh1 million," he said.
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