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Two people have been killed and several others injured following violent clashes between rival political supporters in Kasipul Constituency, Homa Bay County, just weeks before the scheduled parliamentary by-election.
The deadly confrontation occurred on Thursday afternoon at Opondo area in Central Kasipul Ward, involving followers of independent candidate Phillip Aroko and Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) candidate Boyd Were.
According to preliminary police reports, chaos erupted after Aroko’s convoy allegedly arrived at a campaign venue where Boyd Were was addressing his supporters. Witnesses say members of Aroko’s team fired shots into the air, sparking panic and a scuffle that quickly escalated into full-blown violence.
Homa Bay County Police Commander Lawrance Koilem confirmed that the situation deteriorated rapidly after the initial confrontation.
“Tensions flared when one group reportedly disrupted a rival campaign meeting. As the rival candidate went to report the matter, retaliation followed, leading to the tragic deaths,” said Koilem.
He added that the two deceased, both 26 years old, were identified as supporters of Phillip Aroko. Several others sustained injuries of varying degrees and were taken to Oyugis Sub-County Hospital for treatment.
Commander Koilem said officers have been deployed across Kasipul to prevent further violence as investigations continue.
“We have launched a comprehensive probe into the incident. Anyone found to have participated in the killings or incited violence will face the full force of the law. No one will be spared,” he warned.
Police are also pursuing reports that firearms were used during the confrontation, with forensic teams expected to analyze bullet casings recovered from the scene.
Homa Bay Governor and ODM National Chairperson Gladys Wanga strongly condemned the killings, calling on law enforcement agencies and the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to act decisively against anyone fueling tension ahead of the polls.
“What happened in Kasipul is unacceptable. Political competition must never cost lives. I urge IEBC and the police to take firm action against perpetrators, regardless of their political affiliation,” Wanga said in a statement.
Civic leaders in the county have also appealed for calm, warning that continued hostility could jeopardize the integrity of the upcoming by-election.
The Kasipul parliamentary by-election, slated for November 27, 2025, was triggered by the death of the late MP Charles Ong’ondo Were, who was shot dead by unidentified gunmen in Nairobi earlier this year.
The race has since attracted several candidates, with ODM’s Boyd Were and independent aspirant Phillip Aroko emerging as the frontrunners. The campaigns have been marked by growing tension, with local authorities repeatedly urging candidates to conduct peaceful rallies.
Religious and community leaders from Homa Bay County have urged residents to reject violence and allow the democratic process to unfold peacefully.
“We cannot continue burying our youth because of politics,” said Reverend Peter Odhiambo of the Oyugis Pastors’ Fellowship. “Let every candidate sell their agenda peacefully, and let the people decide at the ballot box.”
As investigations continue, security has been tightened across Kasipul Constituency to prevent further confrontations. Police have assured residents that all individuals behind the violence will be brought to justice.
