The United Alternative Government coalition has announced plans to field a single candidate in the upcoming Ol Kalou parliamentary by-election, saying the move is aimed at strengthening opposition unity and giving voters a clear alternative in the contest.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, June 3, the coalition said it had reached a consensus after consultations among its partner parties to support one candidate under its banner.
“Following extensive consultations among coalition partners, we have reached a principled agreement to support a single candidate under the United Alternative Government banner. The candidate will be identified through an independent scientific survey and credible opinion polling to determine the aspirant best placed to secure victory and advance the interests of the people of Ol Kalou,” the coalition said.
It added that the decision was informed by a commitment to unity and collective leadership.
“This approach reflects our commitment to unity, democracy, and evidence-based decision-making, while demonstrating that the national interest must always take precedence over individual political ambitions,” the statement read.
The coalition also called on the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), security agencies and political players to safeguard the integrity of the electoral process ahead of the vote.
“We call upon the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), security agencies, and all political actors to ensure a peaceful, free, fair, and transparent election,” it stated.
At the same time, the coalition cautioned against electoral malpractices, including voter bribery, intimidation and misuse of state resources.
“We specifically warn against voter bribery, the misuse of public resources, intimidation of voters, and the deployment of State machinery to influence the outcome.
“The people of Ol Kalou must be allowed to exercise their democratic right without fear, coercion, or interference. No Kenyan should be forced to choose between conscience and a handout, and no election should be won through intimidation, manipulation, or the purchase of votes,” the statement said.
The July 16, 2026 by-election was triggered by the death of Ol Kalou MP David Kiaraho Njuguna, who passed away on March 29 while undergoing treatment in Nairobi after a long illness.
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula subsequently declared the seat vacant through a Gazette Notice.
The IEBC has cleared nine candidates to vie for the seat, with the race expected to attract significant political attention.
Among those in the contest are UDA candidate Samuel Nyaga, Democratic Congress Party candidate Sammy Ngotho and Jubilee Party flagbearer Wilson Kigwa.
The by-election is widely expected to serve as an early political test for both the Kenya Kwanza administration and opposition forces ahead of the 2027 General Election.
