Ol Kalou in National Spotlight as Calls for Peace Grow Ahead of By-Election

By:Gadiel Satin

Ol Kalou, Nyandarua County, has found itself at the centre of Kenya’s political conversation as leaders, human rights groups and residents call for peaceful campaigns ahead of the parliamentary by-election scheduled for July 16.

In recent weeks, the constituency has witnessed an influx of political leaders, government officials and development announcements, transforming the usually quiet agricultural region into one of the country’s busiest political battlegrounds. At the same time, concerns over campaign-related violence have raised questions about whether the election will proceed peacefully.

The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has already warned that continued breaches of the Electoral Code of Conduct, including violence and voter bribery, could affect the credibility of the poll. The commission has nevertheless confirmed that preparations for the election are complete, with election officials undergoing final training ahead of voting day.

Amnesty International Kenya has urged authorities to investigate reported cases of political violence before Kenyans head to the ballot.

“Such brazen acts of violence against political opponents participating in a legitimate, democratic exercise of campaigning highlight the growing climate of impunity and insecurity surrounding the Ol Kalou by-election campaigns,” Amnesty International Kenya said in a statement.

The appeal follows reports of clashes during campaign activities that have heightened political tensions in the constituency. Deputy President Kithure Kindiki also condemned the violence, urging leaders and supporters to embrace peaceful campaigns.

“Hapana jameni, violence is a NO,” Kindiki said in a message shared on his official social media platforms.

Despite the political tensions, development projects have continued to dominate discussions in the constituency. The national government has unveiled projects worth more than KSh10 billion in sectors including transport, housing, education, fisheries, digital connectivity and land administration.

Among the flagship initiatives are the revival of the Nairobi–Nyahururu railway line, the launch of affordable housing projects, the construction of a modern market, the establishment of digital hubs and the opening of Nyandarua County’s first land registry. Government officials say the projects are aimed at improving livelihoods and creating new economic opportunities for residents.

Speaking during one of the project launches, Tourism Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano said improved infrastructure would stimulate economic growth across the region.

“The revived Nairobi-Nyahururu railway line will not only cut travel costs but also reduce carbon emissions while opening up economic hubs across Ol Kalou and the Aberdare Highlands,” she said.

The concentration of development activities has, however, sparked political debate, with opposition leaders questioning the timing of the projects ahead of the by-election. Government leaders have maintained that the initiatives are part of the Kenya Kwanza administration’s ongoing development agenda and are intended to benefit residents regardless of political affiliation.

For many residents, the focus now shifts to whether the constituency can conduct a peaceful election while ensuring that the promised development projects continue beyond the campaign period. As polling day approaches, stakeholders are calling on candidates and their supporters to uphold peace, respect the rule of law and allow voters to make their choices freely.

The Ol Kalou by-election has become more than a contest for a parliamentary seat. It is now viewed as a test of peaceful democratic participation and the country’s commitment to conducting credible elections while sustaining development.

As the nation watches, residents hope that peace, rather than political confrontation, will define the constituency’s next chapter.