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Ol Kalou by-election: Aspirant arrives to vote riding a donkey
16th July, 2026 01:36 PM
Voters in Ol Kalou Constituency woke up on July 16, 2026, to elect their new Member of Parliament under tight security, but it was one aspirant’s unique arrival that stole the show.
Timothy Kamau Kariuki, the People’s Renaissance Movement candidate, turned heads when he arrived at the Kieni Primary School polling station riding a donkey to cast his vote.
His choice of transport on election day is consistent with his previous public appearances.
During the nomination clearance stage, he rode the same beast of burden to the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission offices to submit his papers, using the animal to symbolise his connection with ordinary citizens.
High stakes on the mountain
The seat fell vacant following the death of former Member of Parliament David Njuguna Kiaraho on March 29, 2026. Since then, the constituency has become a highly contested political playground.
Political analysts view the mini-poll as a direct face-off between different political forces trying to control the Mountain region, particularly after the entry of major parties like the United Democratic Alliance and the Democracy for the Citizens Party.
Campaigns in the run-up to the election were among the most expensive in Nyandarua County’s history. For instance, some local residents raised Ksh28,230 in small individual contributions to support their preferred candidate, highlighting how deeply involved the community has been.
A choice for the ordinary citizen
The political heat was intense. Addressing a rally during the campaign period, Democracy for the Citizens Party leader Rigathi Gachagua cautioned voters against being swayed by sudden government development projects.
“The government can bring even boats, transformers, fast trains, water tanks, and other projects that have never reached Ol Kalou since 1963,” Gachagua said. “Do not agree to sell your right to vote because of last-minute gifts.”
Despite the heavy presence of police and early claims of political friction, electoral officials confirmed that voting at all polling stations proceeded smoothly from 6:00 a.m.
The commission assured residents that anyone still in the queue by the 5:00 p.m. closing time would be allowed to vote, as the constituency determines its future.
