Ol Kalou Residents Return Government-Branded Mattresses
On Friday, July 10, 2026, residents of Ol Kalou began returning government-branded mattresses distributed during the parliamentary by-election campaigns, urging authorities to donate them to under-equipped public hospitals instead.
The by-election is scheduled for July 16, 2026. The symbolic protest has intensified debate over campaign conduct in the constituency.
Residents Reject Campaign Handouts
Residents delivered the mattresses to public facilities instead of keeping them. Many attached messages stating that the items had reached the “wrong destination.”
They argued that hospitals need the supplies more than individual households. The gesture quickly attracted widespread public attention.
Handouts Spark Bribery Claims
The distribution exercise included government-branded mattresses, LPG gas cylinders, and speedboats. Government officials maintained that the programme supports economic empowerment.
However, critics argued that the items amount to voter inducements ahead of the by-election. Governance experts also questioned the timing of the distribution.
ID Card Allegations Raise Concern
The controversy deepened after claims emerged that some politicians exchanged goods for national identity cards. Authorities have not confirmed the allegations.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua urged residents to keep their identity cards and refuse to surrender them. The government has denied accusations of voter manipulation.
IEBC Steps Up Oversight
The parliamentary contest has become a closely watched battle between the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP).
Meanwhile, the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission has deployed investigators to monitor the campaigns.
The commission has also warned that it could postpone or cancel the by-election if bribery, violence, or other electoral offences continue.
Tensions Rise Before Poll Day
With less than a week before voting, political activity has intensified across Ol Kalou. Authorities continue monitoring the situation as candidates make their final appeals to voters.
