Activist Francis Awino has formally petitioned the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to postpone the upcoming Ol Kalou Constituency by-election scheduled for July 16, 2026. He cites concerns over the prevailing security situation and the integrity of the electoral process.
Petition calls for election postponement
In the petition addressed to the IEBC Chairperson, Awino argues that the commission should invoke its powers under Section 55B of the Elections Act. He wants the IEBC to defer the by-election until conditions allow a free, fair, peaceful and credible election.
Awino states that the Constitution requires elections to take place in a transparent, peaceful, accountable and violence-free environment. He argues that recent developments in the constituency have raised questions about whether those constitutional standards can currently be met.
Security and electoral integrity concerns
According to the petition, reports from residents, community leaders, civil society organisations and media outlets highlight persistent political tensions. The reports also describe confrontations and incidents of violence linked to activities surrounding the by-election.
The petitioner also cites allegations of voter intimidation, attempts to improperly influence members of the electorate and claims of voter bribery through monetary and material inducements. He acknowledges that the allegations remain unproven. However, he argues that, if proven, they would amount to electoral offences capable of undermining the credibility of the election.
Awino also expresses concern over reports alleging that senior State officers and government officials participated in political activities associated with the contest. He argues that such participation, whether actual or perceived, risks compromising the constitutional requirement for public officers to remain politically neutral while performing their duties.
Orders sought
The petition argues that the reported violence, intimidation, alleged voter bribery and concerns over the use of State resources have created an electoral environment that could undermine public confidence in the outcome of the poll.
Awino argues that the IEBC has a constitutional obligation to investigate credible concerns affecting the integrity of an election. He also urges the commission to take appropriate remedial measures where necessary.
He therefore asks the commission to obtain reports from security agencies, election observers, civil society organisations and other relevant stakeholders before proceeding with the vote.
Among the orders sought, the petitioner asks the IEBC to postpone the Ol Kalou by-election until a peaceful, lawful and constitutionally compliant electoral environment is restored. He also wants the commission to issue any additional directions necessary to safeguard the integrity, credibility and legitimacy of the electoral process.
The IEBC had not publicly responded to the petition at the time of publication.
