Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has alleged that residents of Ol Kalou are being asked to surrender their national identity cards in exchange for free gas cylinders and government-branded mattresses ahead of the constituency by-election.
In a statement, Gachagua claimed the alleged scheme is aimed at denying residents an opportunity to participate in the Ol Kalou parliamentary by-election scheduled for Wednesday, July 16, 2026.
According to the former DCP party leader, residents should not hand over their identity cards to anyone despite promises of free items or other incentives.
DCP party leader Rigathi Gachagua. Photo: Courtesy.
He urged voters to accept any development projects or donations offered by the government or political leaders but cautioned them against giving up documents that could affect their right to vote.
Gachagua further claimed that the government and leaders affiliated with the ruling party were free to distribute gas cylinders, mattresses, and other development projects in the area, arguing that residents should benefit from public resources without compromising their constitutional rights.
He also suggested that the government could roll out additional projects, including infrastructure and agricultural support initiatives, saying such developments were long overdue for the people of Ol Kalou.
The former Deputy President commended residents for what he described as resisting attempts to influence their political choices through cash and material incentives.
He appealed to them to remain steadfast in the final days leading up to the by-election and to safeguard their democratic rights.
“Please don’t surrender your Identity Card to anyone. Let the Government and UDA campaigners give you the gas cylinder and a GoK mattress… But, my great people of Ol Kalou, do not give away your voting right,” Gachagua stated.
