The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has stepped in to address growing tensions in Kasipul Constituency as candidates prepare for the upcoming by-election.
The Commission’s Electoral Code of Conduct Enforcement Committee on Monday issued strict directives following complaints of intimidation, clashes, and disruptions during campaign activities.
The Committee stressed the need for all aspirants to campaign freely without fear, ensuring a level playing field.
To address these concerns, it instructed that all candidates must adhere to the harmonized campaign schedule agreed upon by all contestants.
The Commission made it clear: “Any reported clashes arising from violations of the schedule will prompt it to exercise powers under paragraph 7 of the Second Schedule of the Elections Act, Cap 7.”
A detailed ruling on the complaints is expected on Tuesday, November 18, 2025.
Kasipul, in Homa Bay County, has been in the national spotlight after recent incidents of political violence.
Several confrontations between supporters of leading candidates have occurred at rallies, prompting police intervention.
These incidents come ahead of a highly contested by-election triggered by the vacancy of the parliamentary seat.
In early November, a rally in Opondo, Central Kasipul Ward, turned deadly when two youths were killed and several others injured after gunshots were fired.
County Police Commander Lawrance Koilem explained: “As Were went to report the incident at Oyugis Police Station, his supporters reacted, which resulted in the tragic death of two youths.”
Authorities said they are investigating a licensed gun holder who reportedly fired into the air during the chaos.
The parliamentary seat fell vacant following the murder of former MP Charles Ong’ondo Were in Nairobi in April 2025.
Ahead of the by-election scheduled for November 27, the Orange Democratic Movement condemned attacks on its candidate Boyd Were.
The party stated:”We wish to make it clear that ODM will not be intimidated by acts of lawlessness aimed at derailing a free, fair, and peaceful election in Kasipul. The people of Kasipul deserve the right to choose their leader without fear, intimidation and coercion.”
Tensions rose again on November 12 when armed youths attacked detectives attempting to arrest murder suspects, leaving three DCI officers injured, including Daniel Muhuhi, the Officer in Charge of Rachuonyo South Sub-County. Police said five suspects escaped during the operation after fleeing from Kosele Trading Centre to the late MP’s homestead in Kachien Village, Central Kasipul Ward.
One suspect took a police handcuff, and authorities have urged its return.
