NAIROBI, Kenya- The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has thanked voters, election officials and stakeholders for their role in the successful conduct of the Ol Kalou parliamentary by-election, while announcing plans for a comprehensive post-election review to strengthen future electoral processes.
In a statement issued on Friday, a day after the July 16 by-election, the Commission said the poll recorded a 57 per cent voter turnout and expressed appreciation to residents of Ol Kalou Constituency for exercising their democratic right.
The Commission also thanked Kenyans for their support throughout the electioneering period.
“The Commission expresses its sincere appreciation to the voters of Ol Kalou Constituency who turned out to exercise their democratic right during the Ol Kalou by-election conducted on 16th July 2026, and all Kenyans for their support during the electioneering period,” the statement read.
IEBC Commends Election Officials
The electoral body lauded its staff for what it described as professionalism and dedication that ensured the by-election was conducted in accordance with the law.
It also recognised the role played by political parties, security agencies, election administrators, civil society organisations, the media and members of the public in supporting the electoral process.
The Commission further acknowledged development partners for helping bridge funding gaps in the by-election budget.
“We further convey our gratitude to all IEBC staff for their dedication, professionalism, and long hours of service that ensured the electoral processes were conducted in full compliance with the law,” the Commission said.
Lessons Ahead of 2027 General Election
IEBC said it will now undertake a comprehensive evaluation of the by-election to identify successes, challenges and areas requiring improvement before the 2027 General Election.
The review, it said, is part of its constitutional mandate under Article 88(4)(h) to facilitate the observation, monitoring and evaluation of elections.
According to the Commission, it will also analyse reports from election stakeholders and adopt recommendations aimed at improving future electoral activities.
“The Commission is committed to reviewing stakeholders’ reports, drawing lessons, and adopting recommendations that will inform improvements ahead of future electoral activities, including the 2027 General Election,” the statement added.
Voter Registration to Resume After Petition Window
IEBC announced that voter registration in Ol Kalou Constituency will resume after the expiry of the statutory election petition period.
Under Section 76 of the Elections Act, any challenge to the validity of the by-election must be filed within 28 days after the declaration of results.
The Commission said registration services will resume once the legal window closes.
Call for Peace
As the constituency transitions from the election period, IEBC urged political leaders and members of the public to maintain peace and embrace issue-based politics.
The Commission called for constructive participation in the country’s democratic processes, noting that credible elections depend on cooperation among all stakeholders.
“Trust in our elections is built not only through technical excellence but also the collective responsibility of all actors to protect the integrity of the process,” the Commission said.
The Ol Kalou by-election, held on July 16, attracted national attention after intense campaigns by both the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and the opposition Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP), with DCP candidate Sammy Douglas Kamau Waweru emerging the winner.
The poll has been widely viewed as an early political test ahead of the 2027 General Election.