Rising Tensions in Kasipul Ahead of By-Elections
A dark cloud is hanging over Kasipul as tensions rise ahead of the November 27 by-elections. The region, known for its political hostility, has once again become the center of a violent incident that has deepened existing rifts between rival candidates.
Two individuals linked to independent candidate Philip Aroko were killed in a violent attack, which has raised concerns about the safety of voters and the integrity of the upcoming election. The incident has also revived painful memories of past tragedies in the constituency, where political conflicts have often led to bloodshed.
How Did the Incident Unfold?
Preliminary reports suggest that the two men, believed to be part of Aroko’s grassroots mobilization team, were intercepted on Thursday, November 6, while heading to a campaign event in Nyandiwa, West Kamagak Ward. A group associated with ODM candidate Boyd Were allegedly confronted them. Moments later, one of Boyd’s supporters was reportedly beaten by a mob reacting to the killings.
Aroko recorded a statement at the Oyugis Police Station, describing the chaos his team encountered. He recounted how, before reaching the venue, they heard what sounded like gunshots and stones hitting their cars. After settling in, they learned that two of their team members had been intercepted. One died immediately, while the other was rushed to the hospital but did not survive.
Videos shared by Aroko showed emotional scenes at the Rachuonyo County Hospital morgue, where residents viewed the body of a young man identified as Bruno. The second victim’s identity was still being confirmed.
Aroko’s Response to the Violence
In a post, Aroko blamed individuals tied to Boyd and drew comparisons between Boyd and his late father Ong’ondo Were, whose death in Nairobi remains a painful reference point in Kasipul politics.
“The joy of the day was cut short by the killing of my supporter Bruno at the hands of hired goons. The young man (Boyd) is walking in his father’s ways, using violence and intimidation,” he wrote.
Aroko stated that the ballot on November 27 would bring an end to the chaos. “Bruno was bright and loyal, loved by many. We mourn a son taken too soon and stand with his family. This violence aims to spread fear, but it will not break the people of Kasipul,” he added.
Boyd Were’s Statement on the Violence
Boyd dismissed Aroko’s claims, stating that he had been engaging voters in Opondo area, Central Kasipul Ward, when Aroko’s team arrived and allegedly sparked the chaos. “Gunshots were heard from Aroko’s team and it disrupted the calm atmosphere. The same group went to Nyalenda, where I was set to meet voters, and destroyed our setup. Two motorcycles were burnt and residents were left shaken,” he said.
Boyd initially avoided mentioning the deaths, focusing instead on his team member Jim, who he said sustained a deep cut on his forehead after being attacked with a machete on his way home. In a later statement on Friday, Boyd finally acknowledged the two deaths and conveyed condolences to their families.
The Violent Nature of Kasipul Politics
The Thursday incident has added to growing concerns about Kasipul’s political climate. Only weeks earlier, several women were assaulted during a Women Empowerment programme in Sikri. The region’s long history of political hostility is often linked to the killing of Ong’ondo, whose death marked a turning point in local politics.
On Friday, October 31, top leaders including deputy president Kithure Kindiki and Homa Bay governor Gladys Wanga led a high-profile campaign for Boyd in Kasipul. The incident has further intensified the already volatile environment, raising questions about the safety of voters and the future of the election process.