Voters in Ol Kalou Constituency to Choose New MP on July 16
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission has fixed July 16, 2026, as the date for a fresh parliamentary election in Ol Kalou Constituency, Nyandarua County.
This poll will allow residents to pick a new Member of the National Assembly after the seat fell vacant earlier this year. The announcement came through an official notice published in the Kenya Gazette, setting clear steps for political parties and voters in the area. Several other local elections will take place on the same day in different parts of the country.
The vacancy occurred following the passing of the area’s long-serving legislator, David Njuguna Kiaraho, on March 29, 2026, while he was undergoing treatment at Nairobi Hospital. Kiaraho had represented Ol Kalou for three terms in Parliament. His death prompted the National Assembly Speaker to formally declare the seat empty a few days ago, in line with constitutional requirements. This development has now paved the way for the by-election to fill the position and ensure continued representation for the people of the constituency.
According to the commission’s timetable, political parties that plan to field candidates must submit the names and supporting signatures by May 4, 2026. Those opting for indirect nomination processes have until May 15. Public servants who wish to contest will need to resign from their jobs within seven days of the official vacancy notice. The active campaign period will run from May 25 up to July 13, giving aspirants enough time to reach out to voters. Voter registration and any updates to the voters’ roll in Ol Kalou will be paused until after the election, specifically until August 13.
This by-election forms part of a series of mini-polls scheduled for the same date. Other contests include filling the Emurua Dikirr parliamentary seat in Narok County, which became vacant after the death of its MP in a helicopter accident, as well as two ward-level elections for county assembly positions in Samburu and Elgeyo/Marakwet counties. The commission has also named returning officers and their deputies to manage the process smoothly. Authorities are expected to ensure peaceful voting, and residents are encouraged to prepare for the important exercise that will shape leadership in their area for the coming years.
