Ruto Urges Unity After UDA's Ol Kalou By-Election Defeat

President William Ruto has addressed the recent defeat of the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) in the Ol Kalou parliamentary by-election, calling for an end to political tensions. He urged the newly elected MP, Sammy Douglas Kamau Waweru, to prioritize serving the residents over engaging in divisive politics.

Ruto emphasized that the focus should now shift from electoral campaigns to development, stating that leaders must work for the benefit of the people. This call for unity comes after Kamau Waweru, representing the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP), won the by-election on July 16, 2026, securing a significant 35,440 votes against UDA's Samuel Muchina Nyagah, who received only 5,450 votes.

Sammy Douglas Kamau Waweru is known for his affiliation with the DCP, a party that has been gaining traction in recent elections. His victory in Ol Kalou is seen as a significant milestone for the DCP and reflects the electorate's desire for change, particularly in the wake of the death of former MP David Njuguna Kiaraho earlier this year.

The by-election was marred by violence, with reports of armed men attacking residents and police using tear gas to disperse crowds at polling stations, raising concerns about the electoral process in the region. DCP leader Rigathi Gachagua celebrated Kamau's win, highlighting it as a reflection of the electorate's will. Following his victory, Kamau urged the national government to address the electorate's dissatisfaction, suggesting that the results could indicate broader sentiments leading up to the 2027 General Election.

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