The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has issued a strong warning to political candidates and parties following deadly violence in the Kasipul parliamentary race.
Two people were killed and several others injured when chaos broke out between supporters of Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) candidate Boyd Were and independent aspirant Philip Aroko.
The commission has condemned the violence, dispatched investigators to the scene, and warned that those found culpable could face disqualification from the upcoming Kasipul by-election set for November 27, 2025.
IEBC Moves to Restore Order After Kasipul Campaign Violence
The IEBC has expressed deep concern over the bloody events that rocked Kasipul Constituency on Thursday, November 6. In a firm statement, the electoral body said the violence undermined the democratic process and violated the Electoral Code of Conduct.
“The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) is deeply saddened and dismayed by the incidents of political violence reported in Kasipul Constituency ahead of the upcoming by-elections,” read part of the statement.
The commission added that political parties, candidates, and their supporters must adhere strictly to the Electoral Code of Conduct. Non-compliance, it warned, could lead to serious penalties, including the disqualification of candidates or entire political parties.
The IEBC has dispatched an investigative team to the region to uncover the circumstances behind the violence. The findings will determine the disciplinary actions to be taken, with possible disqualification awaiting those responsible.
Boyd Were Blames Rival Philip Aroko for the Deadly Clash
ODM candidate Boyd Were, the eldest son of the late Kasipul MP Ong’ondo Were, described the incident as a deliberate attack by hired goons linked to his opponent.
According to Boyd, his campaign event in Opondo, Central Kasipul, had begun peacefully before armed men stormed the venue and started attacking his team and supporters.
“Within minutes, they stormed the venue, alighted from their vehicles, and directed unprovoked attacks toward us. Sadly, gunshots were heard, disrupting the peace that had initially prevailed,” he recounted.
Boyd’s security team suffered severe injuries, and property including a public address system was destroyed. Witnesses confirmed that the scene quickly descended into chaos, with people running for safety as gunfire erupted.
Police are yet to release an official report, but eyewitness accounts indicate that two people died from gunshot wounds, while several others sustained injuries.
Philip Aroko Counters Allegations and Points Finger at Opponent
In a swift response, independent candidate Philip Aroko rejected Boyd’s allegations, claiming instead that it was Boyd’s supporters who triggered the violence.
Aroko alleged that Boyd’s security detail provoked the confrontation and that one of the victims was a resident caught in the crossfire. “It is unfortunate that my name is being dragged into the violence. My team was not even near that venue. Those responsible should be held accountable,” Aroko insisted.
His statement added another layer of confusion to the unfolding political chaos, highlighting the tense rivalry between the two camps ahead of the Kasipul by-election.
Residents expressed fear that if not contained, the animosity could escalate further as election day approaches. Local leaders have called on police and the IEBC to ensure fairness, security, and transparency in handling the matter.
IEBC and Security Agencies Under Pressure to Act
The Kasipul violence has placed immense pressure on both the IEBC and national security agencies to act decisively. The electoral commission has urged police to expedite investigations and arrest those responsible.
IEBC officials noted that acts of intimidation, destruction of property, and physical assault during campaigns are clear violations of the law. The commission vowed to enforce the Electoral Code of Conduct without fear or favor.
“The Commission wishes to remind all persons involved in the electoral process that they must strictly observe the Electoral Code of Conduct. Failure to do so attracts serious consequences,” the IEBC warned.
Political analysts say this incident exposes deep-rooted problems in Kenya’s electoral politics, where violence is often used to intimidate voters and silence rivals. They argue that the IEBC’s stern action could set a critical precedent ahead of the 2027 general elections.
As the nation waits for the results of the ongoing investigations, all eyes remain on Kasipul, where grief, fear, and political tension continue to hang heavy. The upcoming by-election could either restore faith in the democratic process or deepen the scars left by bloodshed.
