NAIROBI, Kenya, Jul 16 – Security chiefs overseeing the Ol Kalou parliamentary by-election have assured voters the exercise is proceeding peacefully, dismissing allegations of intimidation and saying no major security incidents have been reported despite accusations traded by rival political camps.

📻 Breaking It Down

Addressing the media on Thursday, Central Regional Commissioner Joshua Nkanatha said voting commenced smoothly across the constituency, with security personnel deployed to guarantee a safe environment for voters.

“So far, we are happy to report that the voting exercise has started peacefully. We have not received reports of any disturbances, and our officers are deployed across the constituency to ensure every voter exercises their democratic right without fear,” Nkanatha said.

He urged residents who had not yet cast their ballots to turn out in large numbers, assuring them that adequate security measures had been put in place at all polling stations.

📌 What You Need to Know

“There is no reason for anyone to fear. We encourage all eligible voters to come out and vote. If anyone encounters any problem, they should report it immediately to the nearest police station or to the officers deployed at polling stations,” he added.

Nkanatha said every polling stream had been assigned at least two police officers in line with security requirements submitted by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC).

His remarks came amid heightened political tensions, with candidates accusing each other of voter intimidation, bribery and the misuse of security personnel.

Responding to claims by UDA candidate Samuel Muchina Nyaga that one of his campaign vehicles was torched on the eve of the election, Nkanatha said security agencies had not received any formal complaint.

“To be honest, we have not received any report regarding that incident. If such a matter has been reported at any police station, investigations will be conducted,” he said.

The security team also addressed allegations by DCP Deputy Party Leader Cleophas Malala that unidentified vehicles without registration plates were operating in the constituency and could be used to interfere with the election.

📰 Source: Capital FM Kenya