The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has summoned Kasipul by-election candidates Boyd Were and Philip Aroko following violent incidents during their campaigns. IEBC Chairperson Erastus Ethekon confirmed that hearings will commence on Monday, November 17, warning that disqualifications could follow depending on the findings.
“We are aware of the incidences of violence in Kasipul. Immediately we heard of the incidents, we dispatched our investigations team to the ground, they conducted investigations, and now we have the final report,” Ethekon said on Friday, November 14.
The move follows clashes that left two people dead and several others injured. Both candidates have traded accusations over who instigated the violence, with neither accepting responsibility.
The violence erupted when suspected goons attacked Boyd Were’s campaign event in Opondo, Central Kasipul. Boyd, the eldest son of the late Charles Ong’ondo Were, revealed that his security personnel were critically injured and several locals were harmed during the attack. Witnesses reported that the attackers destroyed campaign property, including tents, chairs, and a public address system.
Boyd alleged that the same group moved to Nyalenda, disrupting his planned voter engagements. In response, Philip Aroko accused Boyd’s security team of instigating the violence in Central Kasipul, further deepening the standoff.
IEBC has since empaneled its Code of Conduct Enforcement Committee to oversee the hearings. Chairperson Ethekon emphasized the seriousness of the situation, noting that disqualification could jeopardize the Kasipul by-election, scheduled for November 27, after the brutal murder of Were in broad daylight.
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja assured the public of swift investigations into the violent incidents, highlighting the urgency of restoring peace ahead of the polls.
As Kasipul prepares for its by-election, all eyes will be on the IEBC hearings and the police investigations, which could significantly influence the electoral process and candidates’ eligibility.
