Tensions have escalated in Homa Bay County after two people were killed and several others injured during violent clashes between rival political supporters in the Kasipul parliamentary by-election campaign. The confrontation occurred in the Opondo area of Central Kasipul Ward on Thursday evening, sparking fears of further unrest ahead of the November 27 polls.
According to police reports, chaos broke out when supporters of an independent candidate and those allied to ODM’s Boyd Were clashed during a campaign rally. The violence quickly spiraled out of control, with gunshots reportedly fired into the air as rival groups engaged in running battles. Authorities have since identified a licensed firearm holder suspected of discharging the weapon twice amid the turmoil, saying he will be questioned as part of ongoing investigations.
Homa Bay County Police Commander Lawrance Koilem confirmed that two young men, aged 26, lost their lives during the incident. The deceased, identified as Ben Ondiege and Bruno Onyango, were supporters of the independent candidate and suffered deep head injuries during the clashes. Nearly a dozen others were injured and rushed to local hospitals for treatment.
The unrest reportedly began after an incident at Boyd Were’s campaign venue, which prompted the candidate to report the matter to Oyugis Police Station. However, his supporters allegedly reacted aggressively, leading to the fatal confrontation that has now cast a dark shadow over the election period.
The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has condemned the violence, describing it as a deliberate attempt to derail a peaceful and fair electoral process. In a statement, the party reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining peace and urged law enforcement to take firm action against those behind the attacks. ODM also cited a previous incident in Sikri where vehicles were vandalised and women were assaulted during a campaign event.
The Kasipul parliamentary seat fell vacant following the assassination of former MP Charles Ong’ondo Were in April 2025. As the by-election approaches, security agencies are under pressure to ensure calm and protect the democratic process from being marred by further bloodshed and intimidation.
