The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has issued a series of strict directives to candidates in the upcoming Kasipul Constituency by-election, following growing concerns over violence, intimidation, and violations of the harmonized campaign schedule.
The directives were delivered by the IEBC Electoral Code of Conduct Enforcement Committee after it heard four complaints linked to campaign activities in the constituency. In its ruling on complaint number IEBC/ECCEC/BE/04/2025, the Committee expressed concern over increasing reports of clashes between supporters of rival aspirants.
During a meeting with candidates on November 17, 2025, the Committee emphasized the need to guarantee a level playing field. IEBC noted that every aspirant must be allowed to campaign freely, without fear, coercion, or interference from rival camps. It ordered all candidates to strictly adhere to the harmonized campaign schedule that was mutually agreed upon in the presence of all contestants.
The Committee further warned that any breach of the schedule or incidents of violence attributed to candidates’ supporters will trigger enforcement actions under paragraph 7 of the Second Schedule of the Elections Act, Cap 7. A reasoned decision on the complaints is expected on Tuesday, November 18, 2025.
Kasipul Constituency, located in Homa Bay County, has attracted national attention in recent weeks due to escalating political tensions ahead of the by-election. Several confrontations have been reported, with police intervening on multiple occasions to restore calm at campaign rallies.
The campaigns have been particularly heated following the vacancy of the parliamentary seat, drawing strong contenders including ODM’s Boyd Were and independent aspirant Philip Aroko. Supporters of leading candidates have clashed repeatedly, heightening fears of election-related instability.
Earlier in November, violence in the Opondo area of Central Kasipul Ward resulted in the deaths of two people during a rally, prompting authorities and IEBC to take preventive measures.
The Commission has reiterated its commitment to ensuring peaceful, transparent, and fair campaigns as Kasipul voters prepare to elect their next MP.
