A fresh political controversy has emerged in Ol Kalou after claims that a senior government official is leading the distribution of free cooking gas packages to residents just days before the constituency heads to the polls.
The allegations were raised by Kiharu MP Ndungu Nyoro who questioned whether the exercise amounts to voter inducement and challenged the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission to determine whether electoral laws are being followed.
According to Nyoro, Principal Secretary Phillip Kello joined other senior government officials in campaigning for the United Democratic Alliance candidate in the Ol Kalou by-election.
He alleged that Kello is overseeing the distribution of free cooking gas packages while encouraging residents to support the party’s candidate in the upcoming vote.
Nyoro further claimed that residents who had previously registered for the programme were instructed to report to the polling stations where they are expected to cast their ballots next week.
The use of polling stations as collection centres has attracted public attention and sparked debate over whether the timing and location of the exercise could influence voters.
Those collecting the packages are reportedly receiving a complete cooking kit that includes a six-kilogram gas cylinder, a burner, a grill and a filled gas cylinder.
The initiative has been welcomed by some beneficiaries as a boost to household cooking needs while critics argue that its proximity to the election raises legitimate questions about its purpose.
In a statement shared online, Nyoro questioned whether the IEBC would classify the exercise as voter inducement or choose to overlook it.
He argued that the electoral commission has a responsibility to apply election laws fairly and consistently regardless of the political party or individuals involved.
The allegations have reignited broader discussions about the involvement of senior government officials in political campaigns and the use of government backed programmes during election periods.
Political analysts say such claims, if left unaddressed could further intensify tensions in an already competitive by-election.
The Ol Kalou contest has attracted significant national attention with leaders from different political camps actively campaigning for their preferred candidates.
The race is widely viewed as an important political test, making every campaign activity subject to heightened public scrutiny.
Neither Principal Secretary Phillip Kello nor the UDA campaign had publicly responded to Nyoro’s allegations at the time of publication.
Similarly, the IEBC had not issued an official statement addressing the claims.
As campaigning enters its final days, all eyes are now on the electoral commission and other oversight agencies to determine whether the gas distribution programme complies with Kenya’s election laws or warrants further investigation.