Political Violence Erupts Across Kenya During Ol Kalou By-Election

Political violence erupted across Kenya on July 12, 2026, during the campaign period for the Ol Kalou parliamentary by-election. Clashes occurred in Nyandarua County, Kisumu, and Nyahururu, specifically targeting the Linda Mwananchi movement. Leaders of the movement described the unrest as a coordinated crackdown orchestrated by the government.

In Nyahururu, violence broke out by midday as Linda Mwananchi leaders gathered for church services and public engagements. This gathering followed the group's decision to cancel a previously planned rally in Ol Kalou.

Irungu Kang'ata, the Governor of Murang'a, confirmed that his driver, Gitari, was shot during the unrest in Nyahururu. The events indicate a volatile atmosphere surrounding the by-election, with the movement alleging systemic state aggression.