The leaders of the opposition coalition have expressed serious concerns, alleging that the government has orchestrated widespread voter bribery and misused public resources in the lead-up to the Ol Kalou parliamentary by-election.
In a collaborative statement released on Friday, July 10, 2026, they highlighted that cash handouts, government-branded mattresses, gas cylinders, and the initiation of unbudgeted development projects aimed to sway voters in favor of the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) candidate.
The opposition contended that these actions represent a coordinated government scheme rather than isolated campaign events, emphasizing that public officials have been mobilized to campaign using state resources.
“The reports emerging from Ol Kalou should alarm every Kenyan who values democracy,” the coalition leaders asserted.
They argued that these actions constitute voter bribery under Section 9 of the Election Offences Act, alongside violations concerning the use of public resources and the participation of public officers in elections.
“Public funds should never serve as campaign tools. It’s time for Kenyans to stand up against the misuse of our resources to support a presidency that the nation is eager to replace,” the statement indicated.
The leaders urged the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to act swiftly and impartially, stressing that the commission must show it can effectively oversee the electoral process.
“It must take decisive action without fear or favoritism. When evidence arises against specific candidates, parties, agents, or public officials, the law should be enforced accordingly, including disqualification when necessary,” they stated.
They also called on the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) to investigate the reported voter bribery and other election-related offenses, ensuring that those responsible face prosecution.
Despite their concerns about the campaign conduct, the opposition firmly insisted that the by-election should proceed as planned, dismissing any suggestions for postponement.
“The residents of Ol Kalou deserve to exercise their democratic rights without intimidation. The IEBC and the government must not penalize the people of Ol Kalou by denying them their constitutional right to elect a representative. We will not accept any postponement of the election; that would be an act of cowardice,” the leaders declared.
They cautioned that failing to address these violations could create a troubling precedent leading up to the 2027 General Election.
“Kenya cannot normalize electoral crime and then feign surprise when public corruption follows. Leaders who buy votes view public office as an investment rather than a trust to uphold. The people of Kenya deserve better. Our democracy demands better. The sovereignty of the people is not for sale,” the statement concluded.
