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, citing concerns over the prevailing security situation and the integrity of the electoral process.
In the petition addressed to the IEBC Chairperson, Awino argues that the commission should invoke its powers under Section 55B of the Elections Act to defer the by-election until conditions permit the conduct of a free, fair, peaceful and credible election.
Awino states that the Constitution requires elections to be conducted in an environment that is transparent, peaceful, accountable and free from violence, intimidation, improper influence and corruption. He contends that recent developments within the constituency have raised questions about whether those constitutional standards can presently be met.
According to the petition, reports from residents, community leaders, civil society organisations and media outlets have highlighted persistent political tensions, confrontations and incidents of violence linked to activities surrounding the by-election.
The petitioner further cites allegations of voter intimidation, attempts to improperly influence members of the electorate, and claims of voter bribery through monetary and material inducements. While acknowledging that these allegations remain to be established, 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 the involvement of senior State officers and government officials in political activities associated with the contest. He argues that such participation, whether actual or perceived, risks compromising the constitutional requirement that public officers remain politically neutral in the discharge of their duties.
The petition maintains that the cumulative effect of the reported violence, intimidation, alleged voter bribery and concerns over the use of State resources has created an electoral environment that could compromise 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 and to take appropriate remedial measures where necessary.
He therefore urges 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 what he describes as the restoration of a peaceful, lawful and constitutionally compliant electoral environment, and 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.
