Amnesty International Kenya has called for immediate investigations into alleged election offences ahead of the Ol Kalou by-election set for July 16, warning that the reported incidents could compromise the credibility of the poll.
In a statement issued on Saturday, July 12, the human rights organisation urged the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), and the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) to take swift action before Kenyans head to the ballot.
“Amnesty International Kenya calls on the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), and the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) to urgently investigate and prosecute election offenses undermining the integrity of the Ol Kalou by-election scheduled for 16 July 2026,” stated Amnesty.
The organisation claimed that since the IEBC announced the campaign period, there have been numerous reports of voter bribery through cash, mattresses, LPG cylinders and food donations, raising concerns over the integrity of the electoral process.
Amnesty also alleged that government projects are being rolled out to influence voters, while some chiefs and local administrators have reportedly been mobilising residents in breach of electoral laws.
According to the rights group, the reported incidents point to a broader pattern aimed at undermining the constitutional right to free and fair elections rather than isolated cases.
“These practices are not isolated incidents; they represent a systematic assault on the constitutional right of Kenyans under Article 38 to free, fair, and credible elections,” stated Amnesty.
The organisation further raised concerns over rising political violence during the campaign period, citing clashes between rival supporters that have left several people injured and others dead in recent weeks.
It also referenced the July 11 attack on a campaign truck belonging to the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) in Gilgil by armed men, saying the incident reflects growing insecurity surrounding the by-election.
Amnesty argued that such attacks threaten democratic participation and create an atmosphere of impunity ahead of the vote.
“These attacks not only endanger lives but also undermine the rule of law, casting aspersions on electoral integrity,” stated Amnesty.
The lobby group is now calling for prompt investigations and prosecution of all individuals linked to voter bribery or intimidation, regardless of whether they are Members of Parliament, Cabinet Secretaries or other public officials.
It also urged authorities to strictly enforce campaign rules, including regulations governing late-night rallies and the destruction of opponents' campaign materials, which it says have become increasingly common as campaigns enter the final stretch.
In addition, Amnesty asked the IEBC to publicly assure Kenyans that the by-election will not proceed if the minimum standards for a credible election cannot be met, saying postponement should remain an option if necessary.
“Amnesty International Kenya demands public assurances from IEBC that the by-election will not proceed under conditions of violence and corruption, and that postponement remains an option if minimum standards of credibility cannot be guaranteed,” the lobby group said.
