NAIROBI, Kenya – The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has warned political parties, candidates and their supporters against wearing party colours or displaying campaign symbols at polling stations during the Ol Kalou by-election scheduled for July 16.
IEBC Chairperson Erastus Ethekon said the official campaign period ended on July 13 and urged all candidates and their supporters to fully comply with electoral regulations as the constituency heads to the polls.
Ethekon said no individual will be allowed into a polling station while wearing clothing, badges or any other items that promote a political party or candidate.
“We wish to remind the public and supporters of political candidates that we shall not admit any person who is wearing a badge, clothing or symbol or any other item signifying support for a political party or candidate,” he said.
The electoral agency said the directive is aimed at maintaining neutrality inside polling stations and ensuring that voting takes place in a peaceful and orderly environment.
The IEBC also cautioned politicians against arriving at polling centres with security personnel or supporters who have not been accredited by the commission.
According to Ethekon, only authorised individuals will be granted access to polling stations, warning that no one, regardless of their status, will be allowed to interfere with the electoral process.
“We will not allow anybody, whether a senior politician or anyone who has not been cleared or accredited by the IEBC, to come with their security or supporters and try to disturb peace at polling stations,” he said.
The commission said the restrictions are part of measures designed to safeguard the integrity of the Ol Kalou by-election and maintain peace throughout the voting exercise.
The Ol Kalou by-election will be held on Thursday, July 16, with the IEBC urging voters, candidates and political parties to observe electoral laws to ensure a credible and orderly poll.