IEBC Chair Erastus Ethekon
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 on July 16, 2026.
Speaking ahead of the vote, IEBC Chair Erastus Ethekon said the official campaign period ended on July 13, 2026, and all participants must comply with the electoral rules.
"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," Ethekon said.
The chair said the commission will strictly enforce the regulations at polling stations to ensure a peaceful and orderly election.
He further cautioned politicians against arriving at polling stations with security details or supporters who have not been authorised by the commission.
He said: "We will not allow anybody, whether a senior politician or someone who has not been cleared or accredited by IEBC, to come with their security or supporters to try to disturb peace at the police station."
The commission has also warned voters against carrying mobile phones into polling booths to photograph their marked ballot papers during Thursday's parliamentary by-election.
Ethekon said the practice is illegal and could attract hefty fines or imprisonment.
Ethekon issued the warning on the eve of the by-election, urging voters to uphold the secrecy of the ballot and comply with the law.
"We wish to remind Kenyans and voters of Ol Kalou, please do not take a picture of your ballot once you mark it, once you select the person you want to be your MP."
Ethekon recalled that during previous elections, the commission observed cases where voters took photographs of their marked ballot papers and shared them on social media, undermining the integrity of the electoral process.
The IEBC said the measures are intended to safeguard the integrity of the Ol Kalou by-election and maintain peace throughout the voting process on July 16.
