The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission has officially invited applications from election observer groups and media practitioners seeking accreditation for the upcoming Ol Kalou parliamentary by-election scheduled for July 16, 2026.
In a public notice released on Tuesday, the electoral commission announced that interested organizations and journalists must submit their applications through the IEBC Accreditation Management System before the June 30 deadline.
The accreditation exercise forms part of the commission’s preparations for the highly anticipated by-election, which will fill the vacant Member of National Assembly seat for Ol Kalou Constituency.
Applications to Be Submitted Online
According to the commission, all applications must be submitted through the online accreditation portal to facilitate efficient processing and management of participants involved in the electoral exercise.
“The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) invites applications from organizations wishing to be accredited as Election Observers and Media Practitioners for the Ol-Kalou Constituency Member of National Assembly (MNA) By-Election scheduled for July 16, 2026,” the notice stated.
The commission directed applicants to submit their details through the Accreditation Management System before 5 pm on Tuesday, June 30.
Officials further advised applicants to ensure they have a reliable internet connection while completing the online registration process to avoid delays or submission errors.
Accredited Applicants to Receive Access Badges
The electoral agency said successful applicants will receive official accreditation badges that will grant them access to polling stations and the constituency tallying centre on election day.
The badges will enable accredited observers and journalists to monitor and cover the electoral process in line with election regulations and guidelines.
“The Commission will issue badges to accredited organizations to enable access to Polling Stations and the Constituency Tallying Center,” IEBC stated.
Election observers play a crucial role in promoting transparency, accountability, and public confidence during elections, while accredited media practitioners help keep voters informed throughout the electoral process.
IEBC Clarifies It Will Not Pay Observers or Journalists
The commission also reminded prospective applicants that accreditation does not come with any financial support from IEBC.
In its notice, the electoral body clarified that organizations and individuals participating as observers or journalists will be responsible for their own operational costs.
“The IEBC does not pay election observers and media practitioners,” the notice read in part.
The clarification is aimed at ensuring that applicants understand the terms of participation before seeking accreditation.
By-Election Triggered by Death of David Kiaraho
The Ol Kalou parliamentary by-election was necessitated by the death of former area MP David Njuguna Kiaraho on March 29, 2026.
Kiaraho passed away at the age of 63 while undergoing medical treatment.
The veteran politician was serving his third consecutive term in the National Assembly after securing victory on a Jubilee Party ticket.
His death created a vacancy in the constituency, prompting the electoral commission to schedule a by-election in accordance with constitutional and electoral requirements.
Nine Candidates Cleared for the Contest
The July 16 mini-poll is expected to attract considerable political attention as parties compete to secure the influential parliamentary seat.
IEBC has already cleared nine candidates to participate in the race.
Among the key contenders are Samuel Muchina Nyagah of the United Democratic Alliance, Sammy Kamau Ngotho of the Democracy for Citizens Party, and Wilson Kigwa representing Jubilee Party.
Political analysts expect the contest to serve as an important test of party strength and voter sentiment ahead of future electoral battles.
IEBC Continues Preparations Ahead of Polling Day
The commission has already published the official by-election timetable and continues to roll out preparations ahead of the vote.
Key activities currently underway include voter education campaigns, stakeholder engagement meetings, logistical planning, and accreditation of election participants.
IEBC emphasized that organizations interested in observing or covering the election should submit their applications within the stipulated timelines to allow sufficient time for verification and processing.
With just weeks remaining before polling day, the accreditation exercise marks another significant milestone in preparations for what is expected to be a closely watched by-election in Nyandarua County.