The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has called for immediate action over alleged electoral malpractices ahead of the Ol Kalou parliamentary by-election, warning that the reported incidents could undermine the integrity and credibility of the electoral process.
In a statement issued on Sunday, LSK President Charles Kanjama said the Society was deeply concerned by numerous reports and public information suggesting widespread electoral misconduct, misuse of public resources, voter inducement, political intimidation and inflammatory rhetoric during the campaign period.
Kanjama said the Society had taken note of allegations involving the distribution of cash, goods and other benefits to voters under the guise of empowerment programmes, the use of public resources and state machinery to support political campaigns, and the participation of public officers in partisan political activities contrary to constitutional and statutory requirements of political neutrality.
The Society also cited reports of violence, intimidation, organised groups and threats allegedly aimed at influencing voter behaviour or suppressing political participation.
LSK further noted that some of the reported conduct could amount to offences under the Election Offences Act, including voter bribery, abuse of state resources and undue influence.
“The Law Society of Kenya reiterates that electoral offences are not mere political infractions; they are criminal acts that strike at the heart of constitutional governance and democratic legitimacy. The appropriate response to allegations of electoral misconduct is the prompt, impartial and effective enforcement of the law against the individuals responsible,” the statement said.
The Society urged the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to discharge its constitutional and statutory mandate firmly, independently and without fear, favour or political influence.
It also called on the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC), the Public Service Commission (PSC), the National Police Service and other relevant agencies to investigate the allegations and take appropriate legal action against anyone found to have violated electoral laws.
LSK expressed concern over public suggestions that the Ol Kalou by-election could be postponed because of campaign-related irregularities, saying such a move should only be considered in exceptional circumstances as provided by the Constitution and the law.
According to the Society, voters should not be denied their constitutional right to elect their representative because of alleged misconduct by candidates, political actors or public officials.
Instead, it said existing legal mechanisms, including investigations, prosecutions, fines and disqualification proceedings, should be used to hold offenders accountable.
Kanjama said the Ol Kalou by-election presents an important test of Kenya’s electoral governance framework and the preparedness of institutions responsible for safeguarding free, fair and credible elections ahead of the 2027 General Election.
“The manner in which electoral laws are enforced in this by-election will significantly influence public confidence in future electoral processes,” the Society said, while condemning all forms of violence, intimidation, incitement and lawlessness.
LSK also announced that it will deploy accredited election observers to monitor the July 16 parliamentary by-election.
The Society said the observation mission will independently assess compliance with constitutional principles, electoral laws and democratic standards throughout the electoral process, with its findings informing recommendations aimed at strengthening electoral integrity, accountability, transparency and public confidence.
The IEBC has already said preparations for the Ol Kalou parliamentary by-election are at an advanced stage, with polling officials currently undergoing training ahead of voting on Thursday, July 16, 2026.
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