The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission has moved swiftly to investigate violent incidents that erupted in Kasipul constituency as campaigns for the November 27 by-election intensified.
The commission has issued a strong warning to all political actors against violating the Electoral Code of Conduct.
In its statement on Friday, the IEBC expressed shock at reports that confrontations in Homa Bay county had led to the death of two people and injuries to several others. Security agencies confirmed the events occurred during heated political campaigns in the area.
“The commission condemns, in the strongest terms possible, the senseless acts of violence that have reportedly led to the loss of two lives and injuries,” IEBC chairperson Erastus Ethekon said. “Such hooliganism, harassment, intimidation and wanton destruction are unacceptable, for they undermine the very democratic gains our country has worked so hard to achieve.”
The commission has sent a team to investigate the clashes and collect facts that will guide actions against anyone found responsible. Ethekon warned that the IEBC will not hesitate to apply penalties under the Elections Act, which can include disqualification of candidates who fail to adhere to the Code of Conduct.
“The Code requires all participants to uphold peace, tolerance, and respect for the rule of law during the electoral period,” he said. “Non-adherence to the Code attracts serious penal consequences, including disqualification of candidates or parties found culpable.”
Law enforcement agencies were also urged to move quickly to ensure perpetrators are brought to justice. “Violence has no place in a democracy and must be met with a firm and lawful response,” Ethekon added.
The Kasipul by-election was triggered by the killing of incumbent MP Ong'ondo Were, who was shot on April 30 near Nairobi Funeral Home. This poll, part of a series of mini-elections across the country, is seen as an important test of party support ahead of the 2027 General Election.
The commission expressed sympathy to the families affected by the clashes and reminded all stakeholders that the integrity of elections depends on peaceful participation.
“We call upon all stakeholders — political leaders, candidates, and citizens — to exercise restraint, demonstrate respect for law, and put the interest of the nation above all else,” Ethekon said.
He further stressed that elections are “not a battle of might, but a contest of ideas,” and encouraged all candidates to focus on presenting solutions rather than engaging in confrontations. The commission also highlighted its ongoing voter registration campaigns under #YourVoteYourFuture and #CVR2025.
With the investigation underway, IEBC’s response signals a renewed commitment to uphold peace, deter political violence, and safeguard the credibility of Kenya’s electoral processes.
