Homabay Deputy Governor Joshua Magwanga has broken ranks with the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), throwing his support behind independent candidate Philip Aroko in the Kasipul parliamentary by-election. Speaking at one of Aroko’s rallies on Friday, November 21, Magwanga urged residents to choose leadership that reflects the constituency’s will rather than external party influence.
Magwanga, a former Kasipul MP (2007-2017) and running mate to Governor Gladys Wanga in the 2022 elections, criticised ODM’s nomination process, claiming it was riddled with irregularities. He accused the party of “ferrying voters” from neighboring Suba and Homabay to favour their candidate, Boyd Were, pushing Aroko to contest as an independent.
“The people of Kasipul are entitled to vote. This is not a regional constituency where outsiders are allowed to decide our leadership,” Magwanga asserted, highlighting the need for local-driven representation. He called for transparency, insisting that votes must be “cast, protected, counted, and announced fairly,” emphasizing accountability in the run-up to the polls.
The Kasipul by-election campaigns have been marred by intense confrontations between supporters of both candidates, resulting in injuries, loss of property, and heightened tension. Both Boyd Were and Philip Aroko have accused each other of inciting violence.
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has intervened, fining the leading candidates KSh 1 million each for violating the electoral code of conduct. Both signed an agreement to adhere to a harmonized campaign schedule and maintain peace. The commission warned that non-compliance could lead to disqualification and other legal consequences.
Security agencies have assured Kasipul residents of robust measures to guarantee a peaceful and credible election. Magwanga’s endorsement of an independent candidate signals a significant shake-up in the race, injecting new energy and a local focus into the high-stakes by-election.
