Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has alleged that residents of Olkalou are being asked to surrender their national identity cards in exchange for free gas cylinders and government-branded mattresses ahead of the July 16, 2026 by-election.

In a statement, Gachagua claimed the alleged giveaway scheme was intended to deny residents the opportunity to vote, urging them not to hand over their identity cards to anyone.

“Reports reaching me from Olkalou are that residents are being asked to surrender their identity cards in exchange for a free gas cylinder and a GoK branded mattress,” Gachagua said.

He warned that surrendering identity cards could compromise voters’ ability to participate in the upcoming poll, calling on residents to remain vigilant against what he termed last-minute inducements.

“This is a scheme to deny you the opportunity and right to vote in the by-elections of 16th July 2026. Please don’t surrender your identity card to anyone,” he said.

Gachagua further urged residents to accept any development projects or campaign giveaways without allowing them to influence their political choices.

“Let the Government and UDA campaigners give you the gas cylinder and a GoK mattress,” he said, adding that the area deserved long-overdue development projects.

The former deputy president said Olkalou residents should not be swayed by cash handouts or other promises, praising them for what he described as their resistance to political inducements.

“Stay firm, descendants of Mau Mau,” Gachagua said. “Do not give away your voting right.”

The allegations come as political activity intensifies in Olkalou ahead of the July 16 by-election, with candidates and political parties stepping up campaigns to win support from voters.