Panic as Tear Gas Disrupts Ol Kalou By-Election, Residents Flee Polling Centres

Panic as Tear Gas Disrupts Ol Kalou By-Election, Residents Flee Polling Centres

Voting in the Ol Kalou parliamentary by-election was thrown into temporary chaos on Thursday after tear gas was fired near polling stations, forcing frightened residents and voters to flee as security officers rushed to contain the situation.

The incident unfolded near St. Joseph’s Catholic Comprehensive School and the neighbouring Ol Kalou Comprehensive Primary School, where hundreds of residents had gathered to cast their ballots.

Witnesses said panic erupted when unidentified individuals reportedly arrived in vehicles before tear gas canisters were released into the area. Thick clouds of smoke quickly engulfed parts of the town, prompting voters, traders and passers-by to run for safety.

Several businesses shut their doors as traders abandoned their stalls, while others watched from a distance as police moved in to secure the affected area. The disturbance briefly interrupted normal activities around the polling centres, although voting later resumed under heavy security.

Election officials maintained that the voting exercise continued in most polling stations despite the disruption. Security personnel increased their presence across the constituency to prevent further incidents and reassure voters.

The Ol Kalou by-election has attracted significant political attention, with major parties viewing the contest as an important indicator of public support ahead of the 2027 General Election.

The unrest also affected members of the media covering the polls. Reports indicate that a photojournalist was assaulted during the chaos, sparking concern among media organizations over the safety of journalists covering election events.

By the time calm was restored, no official statement had confirmed arrests or identified those responsible for the disturbance. Police have launched investigations into the incident as voting continued across the constituency.

Authorities have urged residents to remain peaceful and allow the democratic process to proceed without interference while security agencies continue monitoring the situation.

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