The National Police Service has deployed a robust contingent of over 1,000 officers, four water cannons, and specialized tactical units to secure Thursday’s highly anticipated Ol Kalou parliamentary by-election. This decisive security operation comes in response to escalating political tensions, widespread allegations of voter bribery, and isolated incidents of violence ahead of the mini-poll.
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, speaking during a joint briefing with the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), assured residents of an uncompromised environment to exercise their democratic franchise. “Our primary objective is to ensure that the citizens of Ol Kalou can exercise their constitutional right to vote in an atmosphere that is transparent, peaceful, and entirely free from intimidation,” Kanja stated. This heightened security presence is intended to restore confidence as rival political factions continue to trade accusations of electoral malpractice and voter intimidation.
To guarantee seamless security coverage, a highly structured, multi-layered strategy has been set in motion. At least two police officers will be permanently stationed at each of the constituency’s 114 polling centers to protect voting materials, election officials, and the voting process. Additionally, a standby tactical response team consisting of at least fourteen officers will be assigned to every station, positioned to intervene immediately in the event of any security disruption.
The security apparatus has been further reinforced by specialized paramilitary units. The Inspector General announced the strategic mobilization of four platoons from both the General Service Unit (GSU) and the Anti-Stock Theft Unit (ASTU), alongside four water cannons to manage any potential public order disturbances. “This extensive and strategic deployment is meticulously planned to provide comprehensive coverage and maintain absolute public safety throughout the voting period,” Kanja emphasized.
Simultaneously, investigative and intelligence units are actively monitoring the ground. Personnel from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) have been deployed to gather intelligence and investigate electoral offenses, focusing heavily on voter bribery and political violence. Commenting on their mandate, Kanja noted, “The DCI will focus intensively on intelligence gathering and swift investigations, ensuring that any individuals or groups engaging in electoral misconduct are promptly arrested and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”
In tandem with these security measures, the IEBC has finalized its logistical preparations. To protect ballot secrecy, the commission has instituted a strict ban on mobile phones inside voting booths and warned that any candidate or supporter violating campaign deadlines or the Electoral Code of Conduct will face immediate prosecution. Kanja urged residents to cooperate with law enforcement and turn out to vote peacefully, reassuring the public that local business and transport operations would continue without disruption. “The National Police Service remains steadfast in its duty to safeguard this election, ensuring a secure environment where the democratic will of the Ol Kalou electorate can be realized in peace,” Kanja concluded.
