Police in Homa Bay County have launched an investigation into violent clashes that left two people dead and several others injured during a Kasipul parliamentary by-election campaign rally on Thursday afternoon.
The incident, which took place in Opondo area, Central Kasipul Ward, erupted when supporters of independent candidate Phillip Aroko and ODM’s Boyd Were confronted each other, leading to chaos and bloodshed.
County Police Commander Lawrence Koilem said the violence began after Aroko and his supporters allegedly disrupted Were’s rally and fired gunshots into the air, triggering panic among attendees. He added that as Were went to report the matter at Oyugis Police Station, his supporters retaliated, attacking Aroko’s team and fatally injuring two young men, both aged 26.
Koilem confirmed that police have intensified investigations and assured that all those involved in the violence will be held accountable. “No one will be spared,” he warned.
Homa Bay Governor and ODM Chairperson Gladys Wanga strongly condemned the incident, calling on law enforcement and the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to take decisive action against any individuals or candidates promoting violence ahead of the November 27, 2025, Kasipul by-election.
