Two killed as Phillip Aroko, Boyd Were supporters clash ahead of Kasipul By-election

Police in Homa Bay County have launched investigations into an incident where two people were killed and several others injured following clashes between supporters of two Kasipul parliamentary by-election candidates during a political rally on Thursday afternoon.

The confrontation occurred at Opondo area in Central Kasipul Ward when supporters of independent candidate Phillip Aroko and ODM’s Boyd Were engaged in violent skirmishes.

According to County Police Commander Lawrance Koilem, the chaos erupted after Aroko and his supporters allegedly stormed Were’s campaign venue and fired shots into the air, sparking panic and violence.

Koilem said that as Were went to report the incident at Oyugis Police Station, his supporters retaliated against Aroko’s team, leading to the fatal hacking of two youths aged 26, both supporters of Aroko.

The police commander confirmed that investigations are underway, adding that officers are on the ground to ensure all those responsible are brought to book. “No one will be spared,” he said.

Homa Bay Governor and ODM Chairperson Gladys Wanga condemned the incident, urging the police and the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to take firm action against any candidate or supporter involved in political violence ahead of the upcoming Kasipul by-election slated for November 27, 2025.

The seat fell vacant following the murder of late MP Charles Ong’ondo Were who was shot dead by unknown assailants in Nairobi.