Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has called on voters in Ol Kalou to turn out in large numbers as polling continued in the constituency’s parliamentary by-election on Thursday.
In a message shared on election day, Gachagua urged residents who had not yet voted to make their way to polling stations, describing the contest as an important moment for the community.
Addressing residents, he invoked the area’s political history, referring to the late JM Kariuki and the region’s role in Kenya’s struggle for justice.
“My good people of Ol Kalou, the land of the late JM Kariuki, that gallant fighter who fought for the downtrodden,” Gachagua said. He encouraged voters to “continue flowing to the polling stations” and “affirm our dignity and pride.”
The former deputy president said the vote was about more than electing a Member of Parliament, arguing that it reflected the community’s resolve and self-worth.
“We are priceless and will never sell our birthright to anyone, no matter the price,” he said.
Gachagua also praised young people who had accompanied elderly voters to polling stations, saying they had shown responsibility by helping older members of the community participate in the election.
“To our young men, thank you for waking up early to protect and escort your parents and your parents’ age mates to go and vote. That is your cardinal duty in our society, and I am very proud of you,” he said.
He also commended women in the constituency, thanking them for what he described as their guidance and commitment to the community.
Urging those who had remained at home to vote before the busiest hours passed, Gachagua said every ballot mattered.
“For those still at home, please hurry up and cast your vote, the very vote that we are waiting for to restore our dignity as a people,” he said.
The by-election was called following the death of Jubilee Party MP David Njuguna Kiaraho on March 29, 2026, leaving the Ol Kalou parliamentary seat vacant.
The contest has drawn national attention, with political observers viewing it as an early test of influence in the Mt Kenya region ahead of the 2027 General Election. The outcome is expected to offer fresh insight into shifting political alliances in one of the country’s most closely watched voting blocs.
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